Abstract

A unified international classification for staging of gastric cancer has been accomplished. The clinical stage classification is based on the clinical extent of the cancer as demonstrated by clinical examination and roentgenographic and endoscopic studies. The pathologic staging classification is based on the extent of the disease at the time of surgical exploration of the abdomen and/or histopathologic study of the excised surgical specimen, or documentation of advanced disease. The prognosis of gastric cancer depends on the degree of penetration of the stomach by the primary lesion.