What are the different stages of cancer?
Within each cancer diagnosis, you will be told the “stage” of your diagnosis. For me, it was Stage 0 Ductal Carcinoma In Situ, or DCIS.
Breast cancer is staged to determine the extent of the disease, guide treatment decisions, and predict prognosis. The stages are typically categorized from 0 to IV, with higher numbers indicating more advanced cancer. The staging is based on factors such as tumor size, lymph node involvement, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Here are the general stages of breast cancer:
Stage 0 (In Situ):
This is the earliest stage, where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but have not invaded nearby tissues. It is often referred to as “in situ,” meaning the cancer is localized and has not spread.
Stage I
The tumor is small and confined to the breast. It has not spread to the lymph nodes or distant sites.
Stage II
This stage is divided into IIA and IIB:
IIA: The tumor is small but has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
IIB: The tumor is larger, or it has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III
This stage is divided into IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC:
IIA: The tumor may be any size and has spread to nearby lymph nodes, which are usually clumped together.
IIIB: the cancer has invaded nearby tissues, such as the chest wall or skin.
IIIC: The cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone or internal mammary nodes.
Stage IV
This is the most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to other organs or distant sites, such as the lungs, liver, bones, or brain.
It’s important to note that within each stage, there can be further subcategories based on specific characteristics of the tumor and its spread.
Staging is a critical factor in determining the most appropriate treatment plan and assessing the prognosis for individuals with breast cancer. It’s always recommended to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized information and guidance based on the individual's case.
I hope that this information is helpful whether you have been diagnosed or someone you know has been diagnosed. Understanding your complete diagnosis will help you make the best decision when it comes to your treatment plan.
Your Breast Friend,
Edie A. Tolbert
Continue Reading