302 Imaging and biopsy in caner (staging and prognosis)

Question 1

In which cancers is the TNM staging classification used in?

Answer 1

All cancers

except haematological malignancy – lymphoma/leukaemia’s

Question 2

What is the TNM staging system?

Answer 2

T: Tumour – description of spread of primary tumour

N: Nodes – description of extent of nodal spread

M: Metastases – description of spread to distant organs

Question 3

Why are tumours biopsied?

Answer 3

-Determine primary
-Determine cancer biology : histology and immunohistochemistry– Dr Gilbert
-Assess most appropriate treatments.

Question 4

What techniques are used to biopsy cancers?

Answer 4

Ultrasound, CT, Endoscopic, bronchoscopic, excision