[Changes in the TNM classification of gynecological tumors]

Based on the results of clinical and histomorphological studies in recent years, a revision of the TNM classification of malignant tumours of the female genital organs became necessary. Vulvar cancer saw the most significant changes. In the T1 category the new system recognises tumour size and its relation to the infiltration of adjacent structures by the tumour. The number of positive regional lymph nodes has also been included in the new staging system. For cervical cancer, there is a new subdivision of the category T2a depending on tumour size with a breakpoint of ≤ 4 cm versus > 4 cm and a subdivision into T2a1 und T2a2. In endometrial cancer, the previous pT1a and pT1b were merged to pT1a. The former category T1c has changed into T1b. The category pT1c is no longer used. For the first time, there is a TNM classification system for uterine sarcomas.