What does cancer stage and grade mean?
Classification of cancer determines appropriate treatment and helps determine the prognosis. Cancer develops progressively from an alteration in a cell’s genetic structure due to mutations, to cells with uncontrolled growth patterns. Classification is made according to the site of origin, histology (or cell analysis; called grading), and the extent of the disease (called staging). Cancers are often “staged” or rated on how extensive they are before treatment. By determining the correct stage, a physician can plan the best therapy and evaluate the results. Many systems are used to stage or grade tumors. The earlier the stage when diagnosed, the greater the opportunity for cure or improvement. Typically, the stages are: Stage I, the simplest form, indicates that the tumor is small and confined to the organ or tissue where it began. The best chance for cure is when the tumor is still in Stage I. Stage II means the tumor has spread to surrounding tissues. Stage III means the tumor has spre
