Future of the TNM classification and staging system in head and neck cancer

Robert P. Takes, Alessandra Rinaldo, Carl E. Silver, Jay F. Piccirillo, Missak Haigentz, Carlos Suárez, Vincent Van Der Poorten, Robert Hermans, Juan Pablo Rodrigo, Kenneth O. Devaney, Alfio Ferlito

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

91 Scopus citations

Abstract

Staging systems for cancer, including the most universally used TNM classification system, have been based almost exclusively on anatomic information. However, the question arises whether staging systems should be based on this information alone. Other parameters have been identified that should be considered for inclusion in classification systems like the TNM. This is all the more important, as a shift toward nonsurgical treatments for head and neck cancer has been made over the years. For these treatment modalities tumor/biologic characteristics next to anatomic information may be particularly important for treatment choice and outcome. The shortcomings of the current TNM classification system will be discussed, along with suggestions for improvement and expansion of the TNM system based on tumor, patient, and environment-related factors. Further improvement of the TNM classification is expected to result in better treatment choices, outcome and prognostication of patients with head and neck cancer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1693-1711
Number of pages19
JournalHead and Neck
Volume32
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2010

Keywords

  • TNM
  • classification
  • head and neck cancer
  • prognostic factors
  • staging

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Future of the TNM classification and staging system in head and neck cancer'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this