Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma with Fibromatosis/Fasciitis-Like/Desmoid-Type Stroma

A rare morphologic variant of papillary thyroid gland carcinoma characterized by the presence of abundant and cellular stroma resembling nodular fasciitis, fibromatosis, or other proliferative myofibroblastic processes. (WHO)


Stage I Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma Under 55 Years AJCC v8

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Stage I includes: Any T, Any N, M0. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage II Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v8

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: Supraglottis: Tumor invades the mucosa of more than one adjacent subsite of supraglottis or glottis or region outside the supraglottis (e.g., mucosa of base of the tongue, vallecula, medial wall of pyriform sinus) without fixation of the larynx. Glottis: Tumor extends to supraglottis and/or subglottis, and/or with impaired vocal cord mobility. Subglottis: Tumor extends to vocal cord(s) with normal or impaired mobility. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Laryngeal verrucous carcinoma stage IV

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1).  T4a: Supraglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades through the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  Glottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  Subglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  T4b: Supraglottis, Glottis, and Subglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3cm or less in greatest dimension.  N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage III Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage III includes: (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N0, M0); (T3, N1, M0); (T3, N2, M0). T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. T2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor.  T3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor involving bony structures of skull base and/or paranasal sinuses.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  N2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVA Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: 55 years and older: T4b, Any N, M0. T4b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading prevertebral fascia or encasing the carotid artery or mediastinal vessels from a tumor of any size. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVC Oropharyngeal (p16-Negative) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Metastatic Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma

A follicular carcinoma that arises from the thyroid gland and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


hypopharynx squamous cell carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that involves the hypopharynx.


Stage IVA Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); T4: Tumor with intracranial extension, involvement of cranial nerves, hypopharynx, orbit, parotid gland, and/or extensive soft tissue infiltration beyond the lateral surface of the lateral pterygoid muscle.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), and/or unilateral or bilateral metastasis in retropharyngeal lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. N2: Tumor with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. N3: Tumor with unilateral or bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension, and/or extension below the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage IVA Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma AJCC v8


Stage IV Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v6

Stage IV includes: IVA (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1).  T4a: Tumor invades thyroid/cricoid cartilage, hyoid bone, thyroid gland, esophagus, or central compartment soft tissue.  T4b: Tumor invades prevertebral fascia, encases carotid artery, or involves mediastinal structures.  N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3cm but not more than 6cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N2a: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N2b: Metastasis in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. N2c: Metastasis in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th ed.)


Clinical Stage IV HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Unresectable Nasopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage IV Oropharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible.  Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of larynx. T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 centimeters in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis.  T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates, lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. N3: Tumor with metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Metastatic Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the hypopharynx and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


Stage II Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: Under 55 years: Any T, Any N, M1; 55 years and older: (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3a/T3b, Any N, M0). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3a: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading only strap muscles (sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, or omohyoid muscles) from a tumor of any size. N1: Metastasis to regional nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVB Oropharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0). T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates, lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. N3: Tumor with metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


pharynx carcinoma in situ

Stage 0 carcinoma of the pharynx according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th, 7th, and 8th editions.


Stage IVC Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Unresectable Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage IVB Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: T4b, Any N, M0. T4b: Very advanced disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral fascia or encases carotid artery or mediastinal vessels.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Recurrent Thyroid Carcinoma

The reemergence of thyroid gland carcinoma after a period of remission.


carcinoma in situ of nasopharynx

A in situ carcinoma that involves the nasopharynx.


Nasopharyngeal lymphoepithelioma stage II

Stage II includes: (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N0, M0); (T2, N1, M0).  T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. T2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


papillary squamous cell carcinoma of larynx

A variant of squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the larynx.  It is characterized by an exophytic and papillary growth usually in the supraglottic area.  The prognosis is favorable.


Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma recurrent

Reemergence of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx after a period of remission.


Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma recurrent

Reemergence of squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx after a period of remission.


Metastatic Thyroid Gland Oncocytic Carcinoma

Thyroid gland oncocytic carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to another anatomic site.


carcinoma in situ of epiglottis

A in situ carcinoma that involves the epiglottis.


Pharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of pharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition.


Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of thyroid gland medullary carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v7 classification system.


mixed medullary-follicular thyroid carcinoma

A primary carcinoma of the thyroid gland containing a medullary carcinoma component that is immunohistochemically positive for calcitonin, and follicular carcinoma component that is immunohistochemically positive for thyroglobulin.


tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the mucosal lining of the tonsil and tends to metastasize early to the lymph nodes. It predominantly affects middle aged and elderly patients who have a history of alcohol and tobacco use. Patients may present with tonsillar swelling, sore throat, pain radiating to the ipsilateral ear, or a neck mass.


Stage III Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: 55 years and older: T4a, Any N, M0. T4a: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading subcutaneous soft tissues, larynx, trachea, esophagus, or recurrent laryngeal nerve from a tumor of any size. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Advanced Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx that has spread extensively to other anatomic sites or is no longer responding to treatment.


Stage II Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage II includes: Under 45 years: Any T, Any N, M1.  45 years and older: T2, N0, M0.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M1: Distant metastasis.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis.  (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


Laryngeal verrucous carcinoma recurrent

The reemergence of verrucous carcinoma of the larynx after a period of remission.


Oropharyngeal Poorly Differentiated Carcinoma

A high-grade carcinoma that arises from the oropharynx. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cells which bear minimal resemblance to the cells from which they arose.


laryngeal carcinoma

Carcinoma that arises from the laryngeal epithelium. More than 90% of laryngeal carcinomas are squamous cell carcinomas. The remainder are adenoid cystic carcinomas, mucoepidermoid carcinomas and carcinomas with neuroendocrine differentiation.


Stage III Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1a, M0); (T2, N1a, M0); (T3, N1a, M0). T3: Tumor greater than 4 cm in greatest dimension and limited to the thyroid gland, or tumor of any size with minimal extrathyroid extension (e.g., extension to sternothyroid muscle or perithyroid soft tissues).  T1: Tumor size 2 cm or less in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1a: Metastasis to pretracheal, paratracheal or prelaryngeal/Delphian lymph nodes (Level VI lymph nodes).  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVC Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVC Pharyngeal Carcinoma

Stage IVC carcinoma of the pharynx according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th, 7th, and 8th editions.


papillary thyroid Microcarcinoma

A papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland measuring 10mm or less in diameter. The survival rates of patients with this type of carcinoma are the same with those of the normal population.


Stage 0 Nasopharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma AJCC v6, v7, and v8

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0.  Tis: Carcinoma in situ. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th, 7th, and 8th eds.)


Stage IVB Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0). T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates, lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. N3: Tumor with metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage III Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v7


Epiglottic Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx that arises from the epiglottis.


Stage IVB Thyroid Gland Undifferentiated (Anaplastic) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: (T1-T3a, N1, M0); (T3b, Any N, M0); (T4, Any N, M0). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3a: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading only strap muscles (sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, or omohyoid muscles) from a tumor of any size. T4: Tumor of any size with gross extrathyroidal extension. N1: Metastasis to regional nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage II Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma Under 55 Years AJCC v8

Stage II includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVB Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7


Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0); IVB (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4: Nasopharyngeal cancer with intracranial extension and/or involvement of cranial nerves, hypopharynx, orbit, or with extension to the infratemporal fossa/masticator space.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  N2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes. N3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with metastasis in a lymph node (s) more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and/or to supraclavicular fossa.  Supraclavicular zone or fossa is relevant to the staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and is the triangular region originally described by Ho.  It is defined by three points: (1) the superior margin of the sternal end of the clavicle, (2) the superior margin of the lateral end of the clavicle, (3) the point where the neck meets the shoulder.  This would include caudal portions of levels IV and VB.  All cases with lymph nodes (whole or part) in the fossa are considered N3b.  M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Refractory Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma that is resistant to treatment.


Pathologic Stage IV HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage III Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3, N1, M0).  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension or with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus.  T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Locally Advanced Thyroid Gland Oncocytic Carcinoma

Thyroid gland oncocytic carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.


Stage IVB Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0).  T4b: Supraglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Glottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Subglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Advanced Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx that has spread extensively to other anatomic sites or is no longer responding to treatment.


Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage I includes: (T0, N0, M0); (T0, N1, M0); (T1, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N0, M0); (T2, N1, M0). T0: No primary identified. T1: Tumor 2 cm or smaller in greatest dimension. T2: Tumor larger than 2 cm but not larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with metastasis in one or more ipsilateral lymph nodes, none larger than 6 cm. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Oncocytic Carcinoma

Thyroid gland oncocytic carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage II Oropharyngeal (p16-Negative) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: Tumor larger than 2 cm but not larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx stage IV

A squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx that has spread from the original site of growth to another anatomic site.


Stage II Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma 55 Years and Older AJCC v8

Stage II includes: (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3a/T3b, Any N, M0). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3a: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading only strap muscles (sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, or omohyoid muscles) from a tumor of any size. N1: Metastasis to regional nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Oncocytic Variant Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A morphologic variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of papillary or follicular structures, containing malignant follicular cells with abundant granular eosinophilic cytoplasm. These cells have the nuclear features that characterize the papillary carcinomas of the thyroid gland.


Recurrent Hereditary Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma

The reemergence of hereditary thyroid gland medullary carcinoma after a period of remission.


thyroid gland squamous cell carcinoma

A rapidly growing primary carcinoma of the thyroid gland composed of malignant squamous cells. The clinical course is usually aggressive.


Advanced Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that has spread extensively to other anatomic sites or is no longer responding to treatment.


Stage IVB Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: Any T, N3, M0.  N3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with metastasis in a lymph node (s) more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and/or to supraclavicular fossa.  Supraclavicular zone or fossa is relevant to the staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and is the triangular region originally described by Ho.  It is defined by three points: (1) the superior margin of the sternal end of the clavicle, (2) the superior margin of the lateral end of the clavicle, (3) the point where the neck meets the shoulder.  This would include caudal portions of levels IV and VB.  All cases with lymph nodes (whole or part) in the fossa are considered N3b.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Childhood Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma

A follicular thyroid gland carcinoma occurring in childhood.


Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma stage I

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0.  T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Stage I Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0. T1: Tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal involvement. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v6

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0); IVB (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4: Tumor with intracranial extension and/or involvement of cranial nerves, infratemporal fossa, hypopharynx, orbit, or masticator space.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node(s).  N3a: greater than 6 cm in dimension.  N3b: extension to the supraclavicular fossa.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th ed.)


Thyroid Gland Anaplastic Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of thyroid gland anaplastic carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v8 classification system.


Tonsillar Undifferentiated Carcinoma

A non-keratinizing carcinoma arising from the tonsil.  It is characterized by the presence of large malignant cells with vesicular nuclei, prominent nucleoli, syncytial growth pattern, and a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.


Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of follicular thyroid gland carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v7 classification system.


Stage III Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v6 and v7

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3, N1, M0).  T1: Supraglottis: Tumor limited to one subsite of supraglottis with normal vocal cord mobility. Glottis: Tumor limited to the vocal cord(s) (may involve anterior or posterior commissure) with normal mobility.  Subglottis: Tumor limited to the subglottis.  T2: Supraglottis: Tumor invades mucosa of more than one adjacent subsite of supraglottis or glottis or region outside the supraglottis (e.g., mucosa of base of tongue, vallecula, medial wall of pyriform sinus) without fixation of the larynx.  Glottis: Tumor extends to supraglottis and/or subglottis, and/or with impaired vocal cord mobility.  Subglottis: Tumor extends to vocal cord(s) with normal or impaired mobility. T3: Supraglottis: Tumor limited to larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invades any of the following: postcricoid area, pre-epiglottic tissues, paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of thyroid cartilage.  Glottis: Tumor limited to the larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invasion of paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of the thyroid cartilage.  Subglottis: Tumor limited to larynx with vocal cord fixation.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3cm or less in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Alcohol-Related Laryngeal Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the larynx and is caused by alcohol abuse.


Stage IVC Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage II Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: Under 55 years: Any T, Any N, M1; 55 years and older: (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3a/T3b, Any N, M0). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3a: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading only strap muscles (sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, or omohyoid muscles) from a tumor of any size. N1: Metastasis to regional nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage 0 Laryngeal Verrucous Carcinoma AJCC v6, v7, and v8

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0.  Tis: Carcinoma in situ.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th, 7th, and 8th eds.)


Pharyngeal cancer stage I

Stage I carcinoma of the pharynx according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th, 7th, and 8th editions.


Stage I Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma 55 Years and Older AJCC v8

Stage I includes: (T1, N0/NX, M0); (T2, N0/NX, M0).  T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. N0: No evidence of locoregional lymph node metastasis. NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the nasopharynx and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


Advanced Nasopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx that has spread extensively to other anatomic sites or is no longer responding to treatment.


HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of HPV-mediated (p16-positive) oropharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 8th edition.


Locally Advanced Parathyroid Gland Carcinoma

A parathyroid gland carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.


Unresectable Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Unresectable Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage III Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3, N1, M0). T3: Tumor larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension or with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus. T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or smaller in greatest dimension. T2: Tumor invading more than one subsite of hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measuring more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension without fixation of hemilarynx. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or smaller in greatest dimension and ENE (-). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Anaplastic Carcinoma

Thyroid gland anaplastic carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage II Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: (T1, N1, M0); (T0, N1, M0); (T2, N0, M0); (T2, N1, M0). T1: Tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal involvement. T0: No tumor identified, but EBV-positive cervical node(s) involvement is present. T2: Tumor with extension to parapharyngeal space, and/or adjacent soft tissue involvement (medial pterygoid, lateral pterygoid, prevertebral muscles). N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), and/or unilateral or bilateral metastasis in retropharyngeal lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage IVC Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v7


Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of hypopharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 8th edition.


Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the nasopharynx and is characterized by prominent production of keratin.


Laryngeal Basaloid Carcinoma

An aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the pyriform sinus or supraglottic area.  It is characterized by the presence of small malignant cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and scant amount of cytoplasm forming lobules with peripheral palisading.  Comedonecrosis may be present.  An in situ or invasive keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma component is always present.  Signs and symptoms include hoarseness, dysphagia, pain, and neck mass.


Pharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v6 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of pharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th edition.


thyroid gland adenocarcinoma

An adenocarcinoma arising from the follicular cells of the thyroid gland. According to the degree of differentiation, it is classified either as differentiated carcinoma (extensive evidence of follicular cell differentiation), or poorly differentiated carcinoma (limited evidence of follicular cell differentiation).


Stage IVA Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); T4a: Supraglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades through the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Glottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Subglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension.  N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage II Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma Under 45 Years AJCC v7

Stage II includes: Any T, Any N, M1.  M1: Distant metastasis.  (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


Stage II Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v6 and v7

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: (Supraglottis) Tumor invades mucosa of more than one adjacent subsite of supraglottis or glottis or region outside the supraglottis (e.g., mucosa of base of tongue, vallecula, medial wall of pyriform sinus) without fixation of the larynx.  (Glottis) Tumor extends to supraglottis and/or subglottis, and/or with impaired vocal cord mobility.  (Subglottis) Tumor extends to vocal cord(s) with normal or impaired mobility. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Classic Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A thyroid gland papillary carcinoma characterized by the presence of thin cores of fibrovascular tissue lined by one or occasionally several layers of malignant cells with distinct nuclear features that include nuclear pseudoinclusions, nuclear grooves, and ground glass nuclear inclusions.


supraglottis squamous cell carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx that arises from the supraglottic area. Signs and symptoms include dysphagia, a sensation of foreign body in the throat, and hemoptysis. It spreads to the space anterior to the epiglottis, pyriform sinus, and base of the tongue.


Stage IV Oropharyngeal Carcinoma

Stage IV includes: IVA (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB (T4b, Any N, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4a: Tumor invades the larynx, deep/extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible. T4b: Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. M1: Distant Metastasis. (AJCC 6th ed.)


laryngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma

A rare adenoid cystic carcinoma of the larynx. It usually arises from the supraglottic or subglottic area. It is characterized by slow progression and late distant metastases.


Stage 0 Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v6, v7, and v8

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0.  Tis: Carcinoma in situ.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th, 7th, and 8th eds.)


differentiated thyroid carcinoma

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), also known as papillary or follicular thyroid carcinoma, is a slow-growing malignancy usually presenting in adults as an asymptomatic thyroid mass.


Stage IVC Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1.  M1: Distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Laryngeal Acantholytic Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the larynx.  It is characterized by acantholysis of the tumor cells that results in the formation of pseudolumina that resemble glandular structures.


A nasopharyngeal carcinoma characterized by the lack of keratinization and the presence of a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.  It is subdivided into undifferentiated and differentiated types, based on the cytologic features of the malignant cells.  The undifferentiated type is characterized by the presence of cells with large vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli and a syncytial pattern of growth.  The differentiated type is characterized by the presence of smaller cells and cellular stratification reminiscent of transitional cell carcinoma.  While morphologically distinct, both types have similar clinical presentation and prognosis.


larynx carcinoma in situ

A in situ carcinoma that involves the larynx.


Nasopharyngeal Basaloid Carcinoma

An aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the nasopharynx.  It is characterized by the presence of small malignant cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and scant amount of cytoplasm forming lobules with peripheral palisading.  Comedonecrosis may be present.


Stage IVA Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0). T4: Nasopharyngeal cancer with intracranial extension and/or involvement of cranial nerves, hypopharynx, orbit, or with extension to the infratemporal fossa/masticator space.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  N2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Sporadic Thyroid Gland Micromedullary Carcinoma

A sporadic thyroid gland medullary carcinoma measuring less than 10mm in diameter.


thyroid gland undifferentiated (anaplastic) carcinoma

A primary carcinoma of the thyroid gland composed of undifferentiated cells. The malignant cells demonstrate evidence of epithelial differentiation, either by immunohistochemistry or electron microscopic studies. Microscopically, in the majority of cases there is a mixture of spindle, epithelioid, and giant cells. The vast majority of the patients present with a rapidly enlarging neck mass. The clinical course is usually aggressive.


Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0); IVB (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4: Nasopharyngeal cancer with intracranial extension and/or involvement of cranial nerves, hypopharynx, orbit, or with extension to the infratemporal fossa/masticator space.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  N2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes. N3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with metastasis in a lymph node (s) more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and/or to supraclavicular fossa.  Supraclavicular zone or fossa is relevant to the staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and is the triangular region originally described by Ho.  It is defined by three points: (1) the superior margin of the sternal end of the clavicle, (2) the superior margin of the lateral end of the clavicle, (3) the point where the neck meets the shoulder.  This would include caudal portions of levels IV and VB.  All cases with lymph nodes (whole or part) in the fossa are considered N3b.  M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Recurrent Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

The reemergence of differentiated thyroid gland carcinoma after a period of remission.


Stage IV Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1).  T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the thyroid/cricoid cartilage, hyoid bone, thyroid gland, or central compartment soft tissue.  Central compartment soft tissue includes prelaryngeal strap muscles and subcutaneous fat.  T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension or tumor with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus.  T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral fascia, encases carotid artery, or involves mediastinal structures.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. N3: Metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVB Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: 55 years and older: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Pathologic Stage II HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: (T0, N2, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N0, M0); (T3, N1, M0); (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0). T0: No primary identified. T1: Tumor 2 cm or smaller in greatest dimension. T2: Tumor larger than 2 cm but not larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension. T3: Tumor larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis. T4: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible or beyond. Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of the larynx. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with metastasis in four or fewer lymph nodes.  N2: Tumor with metastasis in more than four lymph nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage I Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage I includes: Under 55 years: Any T, Any N, M0. 55 years and older: (T1, N0/NX, M0); (T2, N0/NX, M0).  T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. N0: No evidence of locoregional lymph node metastasis. NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVA Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, Any N, M0); (T1-3, N1b, M0). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but less than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3: Tumor measuring 4 cm or more in greatest dimension or with extrathyroidal extension. T4a: Moderately advanced disease; tumor of any size with gross extrathyroidal extension into the nearby tissues of the neck, including subcutaneous soft tissue, larynx, trachea, esophagus, or recurrent laryngeal nerve. N1b: Metastasis to unilateral, bilateral, or contralateral lateral neck lymph nodes levels I, II, III, IV, or V or retropharyngeal lymph nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVC Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Laryngeal Giant Cell Carcinoma

A rare undifferentiated carcinoma that arises from the larynx.  It is characterized by the presence of multiple bizarre multinucleated giant cells.  The prognosis is poor.


Stage 0 Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v6, v7, and v8

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0.  Tis: Carcinoma in situ. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th, 7th, and 8th eds.)


HPV positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the oropharynx and is associated with human papillomavirus type 16 infection.


Refractory Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma that does not respond to treatment.


Stage I Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma 55 Years and Older AJCC v8

Stage I includes: (T1, N0/NX, M0); (T2, N0/NX, M0).  T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. N0: No evidence of locoregional lymph node metastasis. NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the thyroid gland and is not amenable to surgical resection.


laryngeal small cell carcinoma

A rare carcinoma that arises from the larynx. It is characterized by the presence of small neuroendocrine cells. It metastasizes early and has an aggressive clinical course.


Nasopharyngeal cancer recurrent

The reemergence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma after a period of remission.


Stage IV Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, Any N, M0); (T1-3, N1b, M0); IVB: (T4b, Any N, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1). T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but less than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3: Tumor measuring 4 cm or more in greatest dimension or with extrathyroidal extension. T4a: Moderately advanced disease; tumor of any size with gross extrathyroidal extension into the nearby tissues of the neck, including subcutaneous soft tissue, larynx, trachea, esophagus, or recurrent laryngeal nerve. T4b: Very advanced disease; tumor of any size with extension towards the spine or into nearby large blood vessels, invading the prevertebral fascia, or encasing the carotid artery or mediastinal vessels. N1b: Metastasis to unilateral, bilateral, or contralateral lateral neck lymph nodes levels I, II, III, IV, or V or retropharyngeal lymph nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


thyroid gland diffuse sclerosing papillary carcinoma

A morphologic variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland that more often affects young patients and commonly metastasizing to the lungs. It is characterized by a diffuse infiltration of the thyroid gland by malignant follicular cells, squamous metaplasia, stromal fibrosis, and lymphocytic infiltration.


Refractory Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma

Thyroid gland follicular carcinoma that is resistant to treatment.


Oropharyngeal Human Papillomavirus-Negative Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the oropharynx and lacks association with human papillomavirus type 16 infection.


Stage IVA Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the thyroid/cricoid cartilage, hyoid bone, thyroid gland, or central compartment soft tissue.  Central compartment soft tissue includes prelaryngeal strap muscles and subcutaneous fat.  T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension or tumor with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVB Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Posterior Pharyngeal Wall Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the posterior wall of the pharynx.


Nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma stage I

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0. T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IV Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1).  T4a: Supraglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades through the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  Glottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  Subglottis: Moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  T4b: Supraglottis, Glottis, and Subglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3cm or less in greatest dimension.  N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage I Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage I includes: Under 45 years: Any T, Any N, M0.  45 years and older: T1, N0, M0.  T1: Tumor size 2 cm or less in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis. (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


Stage IVA Pharyngeal Carcinoma

Stage IVA carcinoma of the pharynx according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th, 7th, and 8th editions.


Nasopharyngeal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma

An adenoid cystic carcinoma that arises from the nasopharynx.


Locally Advanced Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

Thyroid gland carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.


Metastatic Oropharyngeal Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the oropharynx and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


Stage IVB Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: (Any T, N3, M0); (T4b, Any N, M0). T4b: Supraglottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Glottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Subglottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. N3: metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral, contralateral, or bilateral lymph nodes and any with ENE(+). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma stage II

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


minimally invasive follicular carcinoma of the thyroid gland

A follicular carcinoma of the thyroid gland showing capsular invasion only.


tall cell variant thyroid gland papillary carcinoma

A morphologic variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of tall malignant follicular cells, arranged in papillary and trabecular patterns. Necrotic changes and high mitotic activity are present.


Childhood Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A papillary thyroid gland carcinoma occurring during childhood.


A salivary gland polymorphous adenocarcinoma that arises from the oropharynx.


Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of differentiated thyroid gland carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v7 classification system.


oropharyngeal carcinoma

Carcinoma, predominantly squamous cell, arising from the epithelial cells of the oropharynx.


Refractory Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that does not respond to treatment.


Pathologic Stage III HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: (T3, N2, M0); (T4, N2, M0). T3: Tumor larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis. T4: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible or beyond. Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of the larynx. N2: Tumor with metastasis in more than four lymph nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage IVB Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: Any T, N3, M0.  N3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with metastasis in a lymph node (s) more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and/or to supraclavicular fossa.  Supraclavicular zone or fossa is relevant to the staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and is the triangular region originally described by Ho.  It is defined by three points: (1) the superior margin of the sternal end of the clavicle, (2) the superior margin of the lateral end of the clavicle, (3) the point where the neck meets the shoulder.  This would include caudal portions of levels IV and VB.  All cases with lymph nodes (whole or part) in the fossa are considered N3b.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVB Oropharyngeal (p16-Negative) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: (Any T, N3, M0); (T4b, Any N, M0). T4b: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates, lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. N3: Tumor with metastasis in a lymph node larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node larger than 3 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral, contralateral, or bilateral lymph nodes any with ENE(+). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


glottis squamous cell carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx that arises from the glottic area. It may remain localized for a long period then in late disease stage, it may spread to the opposite true vocal cord, supraglottic and subglottic areas, and the soft tissues of the neck. Hoarseness is the presenting symptom.


Relapsed Hypopharynx Carcinoma

The reemergence of hypopharyngeal carcinoma after a period of remission.


Stage IVA Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible.  Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of larynx. T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 centimeters in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IV Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IV includes: IVA (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC (Any T, Any N, M1). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible.  Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of larynx. T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 centimeters in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis.  T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades lateral pterygoid muscle, pterygoid plates, lateral nasopharynx, or skull base or encases carotid artery. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. N3: Tumor with metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVA Oropharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma AJCC v7


Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v6 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of hypopharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 6th edition.


Recurrent Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The reemergence of pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma after a period of remission.


Nasopharyngeal lymphoepithelioma stage I

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0. T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage 0 Oropharyngeal (p16-Negative) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0. Tis: Carcinoma in situ. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


familial medullary thyroid carcinoma

An instance of thyroid medullary carcinoma that is caused by an inherited modification of the individual's genome.


Refractory Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that does not respond to treatment.


Recurrent Oropharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

The reemergence of oropharyngeal undifferentiated carcinoma after a period of remission.


Locally Advanced Thyroid Gland Anaplastic Carcinoma

Thyroid gland anaplastic carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

Thyroid gland papillary carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Solid papillary carcinoma with invasion

A papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland which is encapsulated and resembles an encapsulated follicular neoplasm. Capsular invasion is present. The malignant follicular cells display the nuclear features that characterize the papillary adenocarcinomas of the thyroid gland.


Invasive Follicular Variant Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A nonencapsulated, infiltrating papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the predominance of follicular structures. The malignant follicular cells display the nuclear features that characterize the papillary adenocarcinomas of the thyroid gland.


Stage III Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage III includes: (T1, N1a, M0); (T2, N1a, M0); (T3, N1a, M0). T1: Tumor size 2 cm or less in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  T3: Tumor more than 4 cm in greatest dimension and limited to the thyroid gland, or tumor of any size with minimal extrathyroid extension (e.g., extension to sternothyroid muscle or perithyroid soft tissues).  N1a: Metastasis to pretracheal, paratracheal or prelaryngeal/Delphian lymph nodes (Level VI lymph nodes).  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Oropharyngeal lymphoepithelioma stage I

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0.  T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Stage II Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage II includes: (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N0, M0); (T2, N1, M0).  T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. T2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IV Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB: (Any T, N3, M0); (T4b, Any N, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1). T4a: Supraglottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Glottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, cricoid cartilage, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Subglottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). T3: Supraglottis: Tumor is limited to larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invades any of the following: postcricoid area, preepiglottic space, paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of thyroid cartilage. Glottis: Tumor is limited to the larynx with vocal cord fixation and /or invades the paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of the thyroid cartilage. Subglottis: Tumor is limited to the larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invades the paraglottic space and/or inner cortex of the thyroid cartilage. T1: Supraglottis: Tumor is limited to one subsite of supraglottis with normal vocal cord mobility. Glottis: Tumor is limited to the vocal cord(s) (may involve anterior or posterior commissure) with normal mobility. Subglottis: Tumor is limited to the subglottis. T2: Supraglottis: Tumor invades the mucosa of more than one adjacent subsite of supraglottis or glottis or region outside the supraglottis (e.g., mucosa of base of the tongue, vallecula, medial wall of pyriform sinus) without fixation of the larynx. Glottis: Tumor extends to supraglottis and/or subglottis, and/or with impaired vocal cord mobility. Subglottis: Tumor extends to vocal cord(s) with normal or impaired mobility. T4b: Supraglottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Glottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Subglottis: Very advanced local disease. Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension and ENE(-). N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastasis in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-). N3: metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral, contralateral, or bilateral lymph nodes and any with ENE(+). M0: No distant metastasis. M1: distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Postcricoid Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx that arises from the postcricoid region.


Stage III Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: 55 years and older: T4a, Any N, M0. T4a: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading subcutaneous soft tissues, larynx, trachea, esophagus, or recurrent laryngeal nerve from a tumor of any size. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage III Oropharyngeal (p16-Negative) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3, N1, M0). T3: Tumor larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis. T1: Tumor 2 cm or smaller in greatest dimension. T2: Tumor larger than 2 cm but not larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or smaller in greatest dimension and ENE (-). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Laryngeal Neuroendocrine Carcinoma

A rare neuroendocrine carcinoma that arises from the larynx.


Stage IV Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v6

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0); IVB: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVC: (Any T, Any N, M1).  T4: (Supraglottis) T4a: Tumor invades through the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). T4b: Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. (Glottis) T4a: Tumor invades through the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). T4b: Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. (Subglottis) T4a: Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus).  T4b: Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures.  N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N2a: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. N2b: Metastasis in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N2c: Metastasis in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th ed.)


nasopharyngeal carcinoma

A carcinoma arising from the nasopharyngeal epithelium. It includes the following types: keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, nonkeratinizing carcinoma (differentiated and undifferentiated), basaloid squamous cell carcinoma, and papillary adenocarcinoma.


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma

Thyroid gland follicular carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage III Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: (T1, N2, M0); (T0, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N0, M0); (T3, N1, M0); (T3, N2, M0). T1: Tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal involvement. T0: No tumor identified, but EBV-positive cervical node(s) involvement is present. T2: Tumor with extension to parapharyngeal space, and/or adjacent soft tissue involvement (medial pterygoid, lateral pterygoid, prevertebral muscles). T3: Tumor infiltrating bony structures at skull base, cervical vertebrae, pterygoid structures, and/or paranasal sinuses. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), and/or unilateral or bilateral metastasis in retropharyngeal lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. N2: Tumor with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage IVB Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVB includes: 55 years and older: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of papillary thyroid gland carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v7 classification system.


Childhood Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma

A medullary thyroid gland carcinoma occurring in childhood.


Nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma stage III

Stage III includes: (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N0, M0); (T3, N1, M0); (T3, N2, M0). T1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor confined to the nasopharynx, or tumor extending to oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor. T2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with parapharyngeal extension.  Parapharyngeal extension denotes posterolateral infiltration of tumor.  T3: Nasopharyngeal cancer with tumor involving bony structures of skull base and/or paranasal sinuses.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Nasopharyngeal cancer with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa, and/or unilateral or bilateral, retropharyngeal lymph nodes, 6 cm or less in greatest dimension.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes.  N2: Nasopharyngeal cancer with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  Midline nodes are considered ipsilateral nodes. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Advanced Oropharyngeal Carcinoma

Oropharyngeal carcinoma that has spread extensively to other anatomic sites or is no longer responding to treatment.


Stage IVA Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1a, M0); (T1, N1b, M0); (T2, N1b, M0); (T3, N1b, M0); (T4a, N1b, M0). T4a: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor of any size extending beyond the thyroid gland capsule to invade subcutaneous soft tissues, larynx, trachea, esophagus, or recurrent laryngeal nerve. T1: Tumor size 2 cm or less in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland. T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland. T3: Tumor more than 4 cm in greatest dimension and limited to the thyroid gland, or tumor of any size with minimal extrathyroid extension (e.g., extension to sternothyroid muscle or perithyroid soft tissues). N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1a: Metastasis to pretracheal, paratracheal or prelaryngeal/Delphian lymph nodes (Level VI lymph nodes). N1b: Metastasis to unilateral, bilateral or contralateral cervical (Levels I, II, III, IV, or V) or retropharyngeal or superior mediastinal lymph nodes (Level VII). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVA Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the larynx, extrinsic muscle of tongue, medial pterygoid, hard palate, or mandible.  Mucosal extension to lingual surface of epiglottis from primary tumors of the base of the tongue and vallecula does not constitute invasion of larynx. T1: Tumor 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 centimeters in greatest dimension or extension to lingual surface of epiglottis.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx

A squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx that has spread from the original site of growth to another anatomic site.


Stage IVA Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Tumor with moderately advanced local disease.  Tumor invades the thyroid/cricoid cartilage, hyoid bone, thyroid gland, or central compartment soft tissue.  Central compartment soft tissue includes prelaryngeal strap muscles and subcutaneous fat.  T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or less in greatest dimension.  T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  T3: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension or tumor with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension. M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

An undifferentiated carcinoma that arises from the nasopharynx and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


adenoid cystic carcinoma of oropharynx

A adenoid cystic carcinoma that involves the oropharynx.


Locally Advanced Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.


Carcinoma larynx recurrent

The reemergence of laryngeal carcinoma after a period of remission.


Unresectable Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma

Thyroid gland medullary carcinoma that is not amenable to surgical resection.


Stage II Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v6 and v7

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: Tumor invades more than one subsite of the hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measures more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest diameter without fixation of hemilarynx.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Stage I Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma Under 55 Years AJCC v8

Stage I includes: Any T, Any N, M0. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


carcinoma of supraglottis

A carcinoma of the larynx that arises from the supraglottic area.


laryngeal mucoepidermoid carcinoma

A rare mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the larynx. It usually arises from the supraglottic area. Hoarseness and dysphagia are the presenting symptoms.


Stage III Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage III includes: T1-3, N1a, M0. T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but less than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3: Tumor measuring 4 cm or more in greatest dimension or with extrathyroidal extension. N1a: Metastasis to level VI or VII (pretracheal, paratracheal, or prelaryngeal/Delphian, or upper mediastinal) lymph nodes. This can be unilateral or bilateral disease. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage 0 Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v6 and v7

Stage 0 includes: Tis, N0, M0.  Tis: Carcinoma in situ.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Stage II Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0. T2: Tumor invading more than one subsite of hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measuring more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension without fixation of hemilarynx. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Recurrent Thyroid Gland Anaplastic Carcinoma

The reemergence of thyroid gland anaplastic carcinoma after a period of remission.


Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma stage II

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th and 7th eds.)


Childhood Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

A rare carcinoma of the thyroid gland that occurs during childhood.


Stage IVB Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: T4b, Any N, M0.  T4b: Very advanced disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral fascia or encases carotid artery or mediastinal vessels.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage I Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma 45 Years and Older AJCC v7

Stage I includes: T1, N0, M0.  T1: Tumor size 2 cm or less in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis. (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


Metastatic Poorly Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

Poorly differentiated thyroid gland carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to another anatomic site.


Laryngeal Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma

A large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma that arises from the larynx.


Encapsulated Variant Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A typical papillary thyroid gland carcinoma that is totally surrounded by a fibrous capsule, which may be intact or only focally infiltrated by tumor growth. It accounts for about 10% of all cases of papillary thyroid gland carcinoma and has an excellent prognosis. Regional nodal metastases may be present, but bloodborne metastases are rare. The survival rate is nearly 100%. (WHO 2017)


Pharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of pharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 8th edition.


Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: IVA: (T4, N0, M0); (T4, N1, M0); (T4, N2, M0); (Any T, N3, M0); IVB (Any T, Any N, M1). T4: Tumor with intracranial extension, involvement of cranial nerves, hypopharynx, orbit, parotid gland, and/or extensive soft tissue infiltration beyond the lateral surface of the lateral pterygoid muscle.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with unilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), and/or unilateral or bilateral metastasis in retropharyngeal lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. N2: Tumor with bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), 6 cm or smaller in greatest dimension, above the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. N3: Tumor with unilateral or bilateral metastasis in cervical lymph node(s), larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension, and/or extension below the caudal border of cricoid cartilage. M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage II Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma Under 55 Years AJCC v8

Stage II includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVB Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0).  T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral fascia, encases carotid artery, or involves mediastinal structures.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


trabecular follicular adenocarcinoma

A morphologic variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland that predominantly affects children.  It is characterized by the presence of a solid growth pattern.  The malignant cells have nuclear features that are characteristic of papillary carcinomas of the thyroid gland.


Metastatic Parathyroid Gland Carcinoma

A parathyroid gland carcinoma that has spread to other anatomic sites.


Refractory Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma

Thyroid gland medullary carcinoma that is resistant to treatment.


Laryngeal Lymphoepithelial Carcinoma

A rare and aggressive carcinoma that arises from the larynx.  It is characterized by the presence of an undifferentiated carcinoma accompanied by a prominent reactive lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.


thyroid gland spindle cell tumor with thymus-like differentiation

A rare, slow growing, primary carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by a lobulated architectural pattern and the presence of a biphasic cellular population composed of spindle epithelial cells and glandular cells. A small number of cases are composed exclusively of spindle epithelial cells or glandular cells.


Posterior Pharyngeal Wall Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the posterior wall of the pharynx.


Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Spindle Cell Variant

A carcinoma that arises from the larynx and is characterized by the presence of a malignant spindle cell cellular component and a squamous cell carcinoma component.  The latter is either in situ or invasive squamous cell carcinoma.


Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of differentiated thyroid gland carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v8 classification system.


Stage IVA Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades thyroid/cricoid cartilage, hyoid bone, thyroid gland, or central compartment soft tissue. Central compartment soft tissue includes prelaryngeal strap muscles and subcutaneous fat. T1: Tumor limited to one subsite of hypopharynx and/or 2 cm or smaller in greatest dimension. T2: Tumor invading more than one subsite of hypopharynx or an adjacent site, or measuring more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension without fixation of hemilarynx. T3: Tumor larger than 4 cm in greatest dimension or with fixation of hemilarynx or extension to esophagus. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or smaller in greatest dimension and ENE(-). N2: Tumor with metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or smaller in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or larger than 3 cm but not larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastases in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)


Stage III Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v6

Stage III includes: (T3, N0, M0); (T1, N1, M0); (T2, N1, M0); (T3, N2, M0).  T3: Tumor more than 4 cm in greatest dimension.  N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension. N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension, or in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6cm in greatest dimension, or in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 6th ed.)


Metastatic Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

Differentiated thyroid gland carcinoma that has spread from its original site of growth to another anatomic site.


Metastatic Pharyngeal Carcinoma

A carcinoma that arises from the pharynx and has metastasized to another anatomic site.


Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell Variant

A morphologic variant of follicular carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of malignant follicular cells with cytoplasmic vacuoles and eccentrically placed nuclei.


Stage II Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v6

Stage II includes: IIA (T2a, N0, M0); IIB (T1, N1, M0), (T2, N1, M0), (T2a, N1, M0); (T2b, N0, M0); (T2b, N0, M0); (T2b, N1, M0).  T2: Tumor extends to soft tissues.  T2a: Tumor extends to the oropharynx and/or nasal cavity without parapharyngeal extension.  T2b: Any tumor with parapharyngeal extension.  N1: Unilateral metastasis in lymph node(s), 6 cm or less in greatest dimension, above the supraclavicular fossa.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 6th ed.)


Stage IVC Oropharyngeal Undifferentiated Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1. M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Pharyngeal cancer recurrent

The reemergence of carcinoma of the pharynx after a period of remission.


Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of papillary thyroid gland carcinoma, following the rules of the TNM AJCC v8 classification system.


Stage II Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma 45 Years and Older AJCC v7

Stage II includes: T2, N0, M0.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis.  (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


Thyroid Gland Secretory Carcinoma

An invasive adenocarcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the presence of cells that secrete eosinophilic material. It is composed of cystic spaces, tubular structures, and solid areas. ETV6 translocations and ETV6-NTRK3 fusion are present.


Refractory Thyroid Gland Carcinoma

Thyroid gland carcinoma that does not respond to treatment.


HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma by AJCC v8 Pathologic Stage

A term that refers to the pathologic staging of HPV-mediated (p16-positive) oropharyngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 8th edition.


Stage II Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage II includes: Under 45 years: Any T, Any N, M1.  45 years and older: T2, N0, M0.  T2: Tumor more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in greatest dimension, limited to the thyroid gland.  N0: No regional lymph node metastasis.  M1: Distant metastasis.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis.  (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


carcinoma in situ of hypopharynx

A in situ carcinoma that involves the hypopharynx.


Stage I Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma Under 45 Years AJCC v7

Stage I includes: Any T, Any N, M0.  M0: No evidence of distant metastasis.  (from AJCC 7th Ed.)


thyroid gland mucoepidermoid carcinoma

A primary, low grade carcinoma of the thyroid gland composed of groups of squamoid and mucous cells, surrounded by fibrous tissue. Prominent cystic structures may be present. The clinical course is usually indolent.


Stage IVC Nasopharyngeal Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma AJCC v7


Oropharyngeal lymphepithelioma

A non-keratinizing carcinoma arising from the oropharynx.  It is characterized by the presence of large malignant cells with vesicular nuclei, prominent nucleoli, syncytial growth pattern, and a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.


Stage IVB Laryngeal Verrucous Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0).  T4b: Supraglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Glottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures. Subglottis: Very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral space, encases carotid artery, or invades mediastinal structures.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node, more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Recurrent Thyroid Gland Medullary Carcinoma

The reemergence of thyroid gland medullary carcinoma after a period of remission.


Stage IVB Thyroid Gland Undifferentiated (Anaplastic) Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: T4b, Any N, M0.  T4b: Anaplastic carcinoma with gross extrathyroid extension.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IVC Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7


Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma, Clear Cell Variant

A morphologic variant of follicular carcinoma of the thyroid gland characterized by the predominance of malignant follicular clear cells.  These cells lack the nuclear features that characterize the papillary carcinomas of the thyroid gland.


Metastatic Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that has spread from the original site of growth to another anatomic site.


Stage IVB Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: T4b, Any N, M0. T4b: Very advanced disease. Tumor invades prevertebral fascia or encases carotid artery or mediastinal vessels. M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


Stage IV Differentiated Thyroid Gland Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IV includes: IVA: 55 years and older: T4b, Any N, M0; IVB: 55 years and older: Any T, Any N, M1. T4b: Gross extrathyroidal extension invading prevertebral fascia or encasing the carotid artery or mediastinal vessels from a tumor of any size. M0: No distant metastasis. M1: Distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Stage IVA Thyroid Gland Undifferentiated (Anaplastic) Carcinoma AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: T1-T3a, N0/NX, M0. T1: Tumor measuring 2 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T2: Tumor measuring more than 2 cm but 4 cm or less in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. T3a: Tumor measuring more than 4 cm in greatest dimension limited to the thyroid. N0: No evidence of locoregional lymph node metastasis. NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed. M0: No distant metastasis. (from AJCC 8th Ed.)


Warthin-Like Variant Thyroid Gland Papillary Carcinoma

A rare variant of papillary thyroid gland carcinoma characterized by the presence of eosinophilic large cells lining the papillae and a brisk lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in the papillary stalks.


Stage IVC Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v7

Stage IVC includes: Any T, Any N, M1.  M1: Distant metastasis. (AJCC 7th ed.)


parathyroid gland carcinoma

A very rare, slow-growing, clinically serious endocrine tumor that generally develops in mid-adulthood. PRTC presents as a palpable painless mass in the neck and causes severe hypercalcemia and related symptoms, non-specific gastrointestinal manifestations, as well as renal and bone complications related to primary hyperparathyroidism (nephrolithiasis, impaired renal function, osteoporosis, bone pain, and pathologic fractures, etc.). Some PRTCs are however non-functioning tumors.


Stage IVB Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v7

Stage IVB includes: (T4b, Any N, M0); (Any T, N3, M0).  T4b: Tumor with very advanced local disease.  Tumor invades prevertebral fascia, encases carotid artery, or involves mediastinal structures.  N3: Metastasis in a lymph node more than 6 cm in greatest dimension.  M0: No distant metastasis.  (AJCC 7th ed.)


Nasopharyngeal Differentiated Carcinoma

A nonkeratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma characterized by the presence of cells without prominent nucleoli, cellular stratification, and a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.


Stage IV Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma AJCC v8


Childhood Laryngeal Carcinoma

A rare carcinoma of the larynx that occurs during childhood.


Thyroid Gland Follicular Carcinoma, Widely Invasive

A follicular carcinoma of the thyroid gland with extension into surrounding thyroid or extrathyroid tissues.


Childhood Parathyroid Gland Carcinoma

A rare carcinoma of the parathyroid gland that occurs during childhood.


glottis verrucous carcinoma

An exophytic, slow growing, well differentiated and non-metastasizing squamous cell carcinoma with pushing margins that arises from the glottic area of the larynx. It usually presents with hoarseness.


Laryngeal Cancer by AJCC v7 Stage

A term that refers to the staging of laryngeal carcinoma according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition.


Stage IVA Laryngeal Cancer AJCC v8

Stage IVA includes: (T4a, N0, M0); (T4a, N1, M0); (T1, N2, M0); (T2, N2, M0); (T3, N2, M0); (T4a, N2, M0). T4a: Supraglottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Glottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades through the outer cortex of the thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, cricoid cartilage, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscle of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). Subglottis: Moderately advanced local disease. Tumor invades cricoid or thyroid cartilage and/or invades tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck including deep extrinsic muscles of the tongue, strap muscles, thyroid, or esophagus). T3: Supraglottis: Tumor is limited to larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invades any of the following: postcricoid area, preepiglottic space, paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of thyroid cartilage. Glottis: Tumor is limited to the larynx with vocal cord fixation and /or invades the paraglottic space, and/or inner cortex of the thyroid cartilage. Subglottis: Tumor is limited to the larynx with vocal cord fixation and/or invades the paraglottic space and/or inner cortex of the thyroid cartilage. T1: Supraglottis: Tumor is limited to one subsite of supraglottis with normal vocal cord mobility. Glottis: Tumor is limited to the vocal cord(s) (may involve anterior or posterior commissure) with normal mobility. Subglottis: Tumor is limited to the subglottis. T2: Supraglottis: Tumor invades the mucosa of more than one adjacent subsite of supraglottis or glottis or region outside the supraglottis (e.g., mucosa of base of the tongue, vallecula, medial wall of pyriform sinus) without fixation of the larynx. Glottis: Tumor extends to supraglottis and/or subglottis, and/or with impaired vocal cord mobility. Subglottis: Tumor extends to vocal cord(s) with normal or impaired mobility. N0: No regional lymph node metastasis. N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension and ENE(-). N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, 3 cm or less in greatest dimension and ENE(+); or metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, more than 3 cm but not more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastases in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-); or metastasis in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, none more than 6 cm in greatest dimension and ENE(-). M0: No distant metastasis. (AJCC 8th ed.)