The TNM staging for renal cell carcinoma — a T3b tumour is defined as:

• A Tumour grossly extending into the vena cava below the diaphragm ✓
• B Tumour confined to the kidney, >7 cm in greatest dimension
• C Tumour extending into the renal vein or its segmental branches
• D Tumour extending into the vena cava above the diaphragm or invading the wall of the IVC

Explanation

AJCC/TNM RCC staging: T3a — tumour invades the renal vein (or its segmental branches) or perirenal/renal sinus fat; T3b — tumour grossly extends into the vena cava below the diaphragm; T3c — tumour extends into the vena cava above the diaphragm or invades the IVC wall. T4 — extends beyond Gerota's fascia or invades the ipsilateral adrenal gland. Caval thrombus level determines surgical complexity and approach (cardiac bypass for T3c).

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.