Oncology

Cancer staging with AJCC TNM 8th Edition

Cancer staging according to the AJCC 8th Edition TNM system is the foundation of oncologic treatment planning. The TNM classification incorporates tumor extent (T), nodal involvement (N), and distant metastasis (M), with stage groupings that determine prognosis and guide treatment according to NCCN, ESMO, and other guideline bodies.

Performance status and treatment candidacy

Performance status assessment using the ECOG (Zubrod) scale and Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) is essential for treatment selection, chemotherapy dosing, and clinical trial eligibility. ECOG 0-1 patients are generally candidates for intensive chemotherapy, while ECOG ≥2 may warrant modified approaches or palliative intent.

Chemotherapy toxicity and supportive care prediction

Chemotherapy toxicity prediction using tools such as the MASCC febrile neutropenia risk index and various chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) risk scores enables personalized prophylactic strategies, reducing emergency department visits and treatment delays.