Mesothelioma Staging - TNM Staging System
The TNM staging system was created by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). It is designed to help doctors determined whether a patient’s cancer is in the early stages or has developed into a more advanced stage. The TNM staging system, 
which has replaced older staging systems as the standard, is a critical tool for helping doctors create an effective treatment plan for mesothelioma sufferers.
How is the TNM Staging System Used?
The TNM staging system focuses on the size and extent of the tumor (T),
the spread of the cancer to lymph nodes (N), and whether the cancer has metastasized, or spread, to distant organs (M). Each letter is preceded by a number that helps to specifically determine the overall cancer stage.
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Following is an outline of the TNM staging system from the National Cancer Institute and what the various stages mean:
T – Primary Tumor
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TX: The primary tumor can't be measured.
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T0: The primary tumor cannot be located.
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Tis: Cancer cells are present, but have not spread to surrounding tissue. This condition is sometimes called “pre-cancer.”
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T1, T2, T3, and T4: These TNM staging system designations describe the tumor size and its spread into nearby organs. The higher the preceding number, the larger the tumor and/or the greater the extent of its spread.
N – Regional Lymph Nodes
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NX: The nearby lymph nodes can’t be evaluated.
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N0: Cancer has not spread to regional lymph nodes.
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N1, N2, and N3: These TNM staging system designations describe the size, location, and/or number of lymph nodes affected. The higher the preceding number, the more the lymph nodes are involved.
M – Distant Metastasis
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MX: The extent of metastasis can't be evaluated.
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M0: No evidence of distant metastasis can be found.
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M1: The cancer has spread to distant tissues or organs.
Once TNM staging system evaluation is complete, doctors may assign one of four Roman-numeral stages to a patient's cancer: Stage I, II, III, and IV. Each stage is associated with a different prognosis and may involve varied treatment options.
Were You or a Loved One Injured by Asbestos?
If so, you may be entitled to compensation—money that could be used to pay for medical treatments, replace lost wages, and provide financial security for your family. Call Sokolove Law at 1-888-360-4215 today to discuss your right to file a mesothelioma lawsuit.