The TNM Classification is an anatomically based system that records the primary and regional nodal extent of the tumor and the absence or presence of metastases.
Each individual aspect of TNM is termed a category.
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T category describes the primary tumor site,
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N category describes the regional lymph node involvement
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M category describes the presence or otherwise of distant metastatic spread.
The definition of each category depends on the site and histology of the cancer and are described in detail in the Livre de Poche. For more information, including on staging and diagnosis and additional descriptors, please download the document 'How to use the TNM classification' from the "TNM Help Desk" box on the right.