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Contents
  • What is the Lugano Classification?
  • The Four Stages of Lymphoma
  • The Role of PET Scans
  • Other Important Factors

The Lugano Classification: A New Standard for Lymphoma Staging

The Lugano Classification: A New Standard for Lymphoma Staging

Mapping Lymphoma

The Lugano Classification is a modern system for staging lymphoma that helps doctors determine how far the cancer has spread. Understanding this system can help patients better grasp their diagnosis and treatment plan.
Contents
  • What is the Lugano Classification?
  • The Four Stages of Lymphoma
  • The Role of PET Scans
  • Other Important Factors

What is the Lugano Classification?

The Lugano Classification, introduced in 2014, is an updated version of the older Ann Arbor staging system. It incorporates modern imaging techniques, particularly PET scans, to more accurately stage both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. This system helps doctors determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions.

The Four Stages of Lymphoma

The Lugano Classification divides lymphoma into four stages. Stage I involves a single lymph node region or a single organ. Stage II involves two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm. Stage III means the lymphoma is in lymph node regions or organs on both sides of the diaphragm. Stage IV indicates widespread involvement of one or more organs beyond the lymph system.
The Lugano Classification is a modern system for staging lymphoma, introduced in 2014. It utilizes PET scans to stage Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas accurately, aiding in assessing the extent of the disease and guiding treatment decisions.

The Role of PET Scans

PET scans play a crucial role in the Lugano Classification. They help distinguish between limited and advanced disease more accurately than CT scans alone. PET scans are also used to assess response to treatment, using a five-point scale called the Deauville criteria. This helps doctors determine if treatment is working or if changes are needed.

Other Important Factors

The Lugano Classification also considers other factors beyond just stage. It notes whether the lymphoma is causing any symptoms (like fever or weight loss) and whether there are any large tumor masses (called bulky disease). However, unlike the older system, it doesn't use letters (A or B) to denote the presence or absence of symptoms, as this wasn't found to be consistently important for prognosis.

FAQs

How does Lugano differ from the Ann Arbor system?

It incorporates PET scans and simplifies some categories.

Does a higher stage always mean a worse prognosis?

Not necessarily; other factors also influence prognosis and treatment.

How often is staging repeated?

Typically at diagnosis, during treatment, and to confirm remission.

Can the stage change over time?

Yes, it can change based on how the lymphoma responds to treatment.

Is Lugano used for all types of lymphoma?

It's used for most, but some rare types may use different systems.

Key Takeaways

The Lugano Classification provides a standardized way to assess lymphoma extent and treatment response, improving patient care.
Want to understand more about your lymphoma staging? Discuss your Lugano Classification with Doctronic for personalized insights.
Additional References
  1. Cheson BD, et al. Recommendations for initial evaluation, staging, and response assessment of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma: the Lugano classification. J Clin Oncol 2014; 32:3059.
  2. Barrington SF, et al. Role of imaging in the staging and response assessment of lymphoma: consensus of the International Conference on Malignant Lymphomas Imaging Working Group. J Clin Oncol 2014; 32:3048.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.