In the FIGO 2018 staging of cervical carcinoma, which finding would upstage a tumor from Stage IIB to Stage IIIB?
- A Extension to the uterine corpus
- B Hydronephrosis due to tumor obstruction of the ureter ✓
- C Vaginal involvement of the lower third
- D Invasion of the bladder mucosa
Explanation
Stage IIIB is defined by extension to the pelvic wall and/or hydronephrosis or non-functioning kidney due to tumor, or involvement of pelvic and/or paraaortic lymph nodes. Hydronephrosis from ureteral obstruction by tumor is a hallmark of Stage IIIB. Extension to the uterine corpus does not change the stage. Lower third vaginal involvement is Stage IIIA. Bladder mucosal invasion is Stage IVA. This distinction is critical as Stage IIIB disease is treated with definitive chemoradiation rather than surgery.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
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