Compared with the AJCC 7th edition, which change was made in the AJCC 8th edition regarding T1 category criteria for cutaneous melanoma?
- A Mitotic rate was added as a defining criterion for T1 subcategories
- B Mitotic rate was removed from the defining criteria, leaving thickness and ulceration alone ✓
- C Clark level became the primary determinant of T1 subclassification
- D The T1 threshold was raised from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm
Correct answer: B. Mitotic rate was removed from the defining criteria, leaving thickness and ulceration alone
Explanation
In AJCC 8th edition, mitotic rate was dropped from the T1 definitions after multivariate analysis showed it added little once thickness and ulceration were accounted for. T1a is defined as under 0.8 mm without ulceration and T1b as under 0.8 mm with ulceration, or 0.8 to 1.0 mm with or without ulceration. Clark level is not used for T categorisation in this system.
Reference: AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, 8th ed.
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