[Results of resected lung cancer based on the new UICC TNM classification, 5th edition]

The UICC (Union Internationale Contre le Cancer) TNM Classification for lung cancer staging, 5th edition, has been published this year in accordance with the regulations following the last 10 years of the 4th edition's in use since 1987. What is new in this latest edition is that Stage I and II became classified as IA and IB, and IIA and IIB respectively. Furthermore, the new mode of classification can be found in that T3N0M0 is now acknowledged as of IIB, and T4 in such case where the pulmonary tumors, except for that of primary, exist within the same lobe, and M1 when found in other lobes. T3N0M0, excluding Pancoast tumor, has a relatively good prognosis, therefore, it should belong to Stage II rather than Stage III. However, it will become necessary to treat Pancoast tumor separately, given its poor prognosis. In the case of the same histological type, differential diagnosis of either multiple cancer or intra pulmonary metastasis could become highly difficult, therefore, such cases should not be classified by TNM Stage at present. Nevertheless, there should be a further discussion with regards to the method of description of classification. As indicated in the results reviewed at the National Cancer Center Hospital, the new TNM classification should be seen as appropriate, and we hope to bring about the 6th edition in 10 years time, as the fruit of the analyses of various opinions and data gathered from the doctors who are all specialists in this field.