staging guidelines

Staging guidelines are systematic recommendations used to assess and categorize the severity of a disease, particularly cancer. They help healthcare professionals determine the extent of the disease, which is crucial for deciding the best treatment options and predicting outcomes. The staging process typically involves various tests and imaging to evaluate the size of the tumor, its spread to nearby lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body. Understanding the stage helps patients and doctors make informed decisions about care and management strategies.