T N M classification for stomach cancer

Abstract

A uniform system for classification of stomach cancer was developed following a field trial study among 7 participating institutions. Case records of 1,241 patients were submitted for analysis. Clinical, radiographic, or gastroscopic studies and biopsy of the primary tumor or metastases provided the information necessary to stage a stomach cancer. The stage classification developed was based upon the anatomical extent of the cancer found at the time of surgical exploration of the abdomen, or on clinical examination in case of advanced disease. Survivorship was dependent upon the extent of the penetration of the gastric wall by the primary tumor. The longest survival of patients occurred when the tumor was confined to the mucosal level of the stomach wall. As the depth of penetration increased, the survivorship decreased. Once the neoplasm involved the regional lymph nodes, a marked reduction in survivorship was demonstrated. In the presence of distant metastases, there was seldom survival beyond 3 years. Copyright © 1970 American Cancer Society