Colon Cancer Classification

Definition

There are two classifications that are used separately, the Dukes and the TNM (tumor, lymphnodes, metastases) classification (Colon Cancer Clinical Oncology).

The Dukes-Classification is preferred in the US and UK and describes the following stages:

• 1. Dukes A Growth limited to wall, nodes negative

• 2. Dukes B Growth beyond muscularis propia, nodes negative

• 3. Dukes C1 Nodes positive and apical negative

• 4. Dukes C2 Apical node positive

• 5. Dukes D Growth beyond originating organ

The TNM-staging (suggested by the Union internationale contre le cancer, UICC) is preferred in European countries and distinguishes between the stages listed below. T stands for the expansion of the primary tumor; N for the lack or the presence of metastases of the lymph nodes; M for the lack or the presence of distant metastases. Numbers indicate the extent of malignant processes; p, postoperative (Table 1).

Table 1 TNM-staging