Proposal for an extended pTNM classification of thyroid carcinoma : Commentary on deficits of the 8th edition of the TNM classification

Abstract

In the 8th edition of the TNM classification of thyroid carcinomas, which was introduced in 2017, carcinomas with minimal extrathyroidal extension are no longer mentioned, which might cause problems. These tumors were explicitly categorized in previous TNM classifications (5-7th editions). Studies on the prognostic relevance of minimal extrathyroidal extension have shown conflicting results. Moreover, the vast majority of these studies retrospectively analyzed only subgroups of thyroid carcinomas (e.g. differentiated thyroid carcinoma, papillary thyroid carcinoma). The proposed subcategorization of the current TNM classification (8th edition) ensures the continuity of the parameter minimal extrathyroidal extension within the TNM categorization of thyroid carcinomas and also offers the possibility to prospectively analyze in a standardized manner the potential biological relevance of minimal extrathyroidal extension in relation to tumor categories (T/pT category).

Keywords: Carcinoma; Papillary thyroid cancer; Prognosis; Thyroid neoplasms; Tumor staging.