Which of the following is the most important independent prognostic factor for recurrence in early-stage cervical cancer treated with radical hysterectomy?
- A Lymph node metastasis ✓
- B Tumor size >2 cm
- C Depth of stromal invasion >10 mm
- D Presence of lymphovascular space invasion
Correct answer: A. Lymph node metastasis
Explanation
Lymph node metastasis is the single most important independent prognostic factor for recurrence and survival in early-stage cervical cancer. Patients with positive nodes have approximately 50% reduction in 5-year survival compared to node-negative patients. It also dictates adjuvant therapy: positive nodes mandate chemoradiation regardless of other factors. Tumor size, depth of invasion, and LVSI are intermediate-risk factors but less determinative than nodal status.
Reference: Benda JA et al., Gynecologic Oncology; Sedlis criteria and GOG 92, 1999 ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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