What does the rTNM classification indicate?

The rTNM classification specifically refers to the staging of cancer after recurrence, which is typically assessed at the time of retreatment. This classification system allows healthcare professionals to determine the extent of the disease following an initial treatment and subsequent recurrence. It provides vital information about the tumor size, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and if there are distant metastases.

In clinical practice, this classification aids in guiding treatment decisions and prognostication for patients whose cancer has returned. The integration of the "r" in rTNM denotes that it is a revised classification used in the context of recurrences, distinguishing it from the initial classification modes that deal with newly diagnosed cancer. Thus, the rTNM classification is particularly critical for tailoring further treatment strategies based on the current state of the cancer, rather than its state at initial diagnosis or post-surgery evaluation.