Synopsis
Distinguish anatomical stage, pathological grade and functional performance status, establish each with the correct evidence, and use them with biology and patient priorities rather than as interchangeable labels.
- Stage describes anatomical extent, usually primary tumour, regional nodes and distant metastasis; the applicable TNM edition and tumour-specific system must be named.
- Clinical stage uses examination, imaging and biopsy information before definitive surgery, while pathological stage incorporates resection findings and may be more precise.
- Grade describes microscopic differentiation, proliferation or tumour-specific biological aggressiveness and is not another word for stage.
Investigation priorities
Define local, nodal and distant extent before treatment.
Management branches
Cancer is histologically confirmed or strongly suspected and definitive planning begins.
- Name the tumour subtype, staging system and edition, then identify which anatomical findings could change treatment intent.
- Complete the site-specific imaging and tissue pathway, confirming equivocal distant lesions when the consequence would be major.