Which staging system is commonly used for solid tumors?

The TNM staging system is widely accepted and utilized for classifying solid tumors. It provides a comprehensive framework for determining the extent of cancer based on three key components: T (tumor size and extent), N (regional lymph node involvement), and M (distant metastasis). This system allows healthcare professionals to evaluate how much the cancer has spread within the body, which is essential for treatment planning, prognosis prediction, and communication among medical professionals.

The ability to quantify tumor characteristics and their spread accurately makes the TNM system an invaluable tool in oncology. It is used internationally and applies to various solid tumors, allowing for standardized reporting and comparison of treatment outcomes across different institutions and studies.

While other options may also serve purposes in cancer classification, such as the AJCC classification system, which actually builds on the TNM system, the FIGO staging system is primarily used for gynecological cancers and the Bristol classification is not widely recognized in the context of solid tumors. Thus, the TNM system remains the cornerstone for staging solid tumors due to its robust structure and widespread applicability.