Explanatory Notes – General

Abstract

TNM Supplement. A Commentary on Uniform Use, Fourth Edition, extends and clarifies the most recent version of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) TNM Classification of Malignant Tumours, providing a monograph that amplifies and unifies the principles and practice of cancer staging. The TNM (Tumour‐Node‐Metastasis) classification remains the most widely employed system for staging of cancer and the anatomic extent of disease represented by the TNM system is the most important predictor of outcome for most tumours. This chapter provides additional explanatory information for the general application of TNM providing more precise definitions for the general rules of the TNM system, definition of anatomical sites/ subsites, regional lymph nodes and T, N, and M categories that are generic or ambiguous.