This type of staging is called pathologic staging. Pathologic staging is usually done only when it is needed to help a doctor plan treatment. Occasionally, specialized staging systems are used. A doctor should be aware of the system used. Some of these include the patient's age and responsiveness to treatment, tumor size, and number of places the tumor has spread outside of the lymph nodes.
Cancer is found in only one area or organ outside the lymph nodes and in the lymph nodes around it.
Other lymph node areas on the same side of the diaphragm may also have cancer. Stage III Cancer is found in lymph node areas on both sides of the diaphragm. Cancer cells may or may not be found in the lymph nodes near these organs. Cancer has spread to only one organ outside the lymph system, but lymph nodes far away from that organ are involved. Recurrent Recurrent disease means that the cancer has come back after it has been treated.