[Instructions for the documentation of neoplasms in the area of the head and neck following the TNM system. Contribution to the validation of the TNM system]

Abstract

As the only international classification scheme the TNM-system allows classification of practically all tumours of all organs according to uniform rules. In the interest of international comparison of findings and results the TNM-system alone can be recommended for classification. Checklists are used for extension of the basic documentation for the head and neck. Directions for initial and follow up analysis are given. The TNM-system in this proposed practice allows clear determination of the pre-therapeutic findings, recurrences to be taken into account, the course of the disease to be recorded, and the survival rate to be calculated. The data are suitable for recording on a computer. Finally uniform recommendations for treatment may be deduced.