According to AJCC 8th edition, a glottic laryngeal carcinoma is staged as T4a when it demonstrates which of the following features?
- A Impaired vocal cord mobility
- B Invasion through the thyroid cartilage cortex ✓
- C Bilateral cervical lymph nodes each measuring 3 cm
- D Fixation of the hemilarynx
Correct answer: B. Invasion through the thyroid cartilage cortex
Explanation
AJCC 8th edition classifies T4a glottic carcinoma as invasion through the thyroid cartilage cortex or extension into tissues beyond the larynx (e.g., trachea, soft tissues of neck). Impaired mobility is T3. Bilateral nodes up to 6 cm are N2c. T4b involves prevertebral space, carotid encasement, or mediastinal structures.
Reference: AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, 8th ed.
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