[Surgical pathology--the TNM system]

Carcinomas of the stomach can be divided into two clinicobiological entities: the intestinal and diffuse carcinoma (Laurén). These types differ with regard to epidemiology, etiology, spread, and prognosis. The intraoperative frozen section technique is very efficient and useful predominantly for intraoperative staging. pTNM classification and stage grouping (according to the rules of UICC), performed on resected tumors, are basic requirements for making a prognosis and evaluating the end results.