TNM Staging System

The TNM staging system is a way doctors classify cancer based on three key factors: **T** stands for the size and extent of the primary tumor, **N** indicates whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and **M** denotes if there are metastases, or spread, to distant organs. Each component is assigned a number or letter to describe the cancer's characteristics more precisely. This system helps determine the cancer stage, which is crucial for choosing the best treatment options and understanding the prognosis for the patient.