New FIGO 2023 Staging System of Endometrial Cancer: An Updated Review on a Current Hot Topic

The International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) introduced a new staging system for endometrial carcinoma FIGO 2023 in June 2023. The new staging system differs significantly from previous versions by incorporating other non-anatomical parameters (histological type of tumour, tumour grade and the presence of massive lymphovascular space involvement as well as the molecular classification of the tumour). The FIGO 2023 staging system enhances the accuracy of prognostic assessments for patients at a specific stage with better options for targeted treatment. Another objective was to synchronise staging as much as possible with the European oncogynaecological ESGO/ESTRO/ESP guidelines for the management of patients with endometrial carcinoma established in 2021. However, several changes are controversial. Routine molecular classification of endometrial carcinomas is not yet commonly available in most countries of the world. Another limitation of the FIGO 2023 staging system of endometrial cancer is the inclusion of variables whose definitions are still evolving, as well as variables that are subject to considerable interobserver variability in their assessment. Advantages, controversies, and limitations for clinical practice of the new FIGO 2023 endometrial cancer staging system are discussed.