Coding LNs Evaluation

The data field for CS Lymph Node Evaluation records how the code for the item "CS Lymph Nodes" was determined based on the diagnostic methods employed.

This data item is used in Collaborative Stage to identify whether the N of AJCC TNM was clinically or pathologically diagnosed.

Code Description & Staging Basis
0 No regional lymph nodes removed for examination. Evaluation based on physical examination, imaging, or other non-invasive clinical evidence. No autopsy evidence used.
1 No regional lymph nodes removed for examination. Evaluation based on endoscopic examination, diagnostic biopsy including fine needle aspiration of lymph node(s) or other invasive techniques. No autopsy evidence used.
2 No regional lymph nodes removed for examination, but evidence derived from autopsy (tumor was suspected or diagnosed prior to autopsy).
3 Regional lymph nodes removed for examination (removal of at least 1 lymph node) without pre-surgical systemic treatment or radiation OR lymph nodes removed for examination, unknown if pre-surgical systemic treatment or radiation performed.
5 Regional lymph nodes removed for examination with pre-surgical systemic treatment or radiation, and lymph node evaluation based on clinical evidence.
6 Regional lymph nodes removed for examination with pre-surgical systemic treatment or radiation, but lymph node evaluation based on pathologic evidence.
8 Evidence from autopsy; tumor was unsuspected or undiagnosed prior to autopsy.
9 Unknown if lymph nodes removed for examination.
Not assessed; cannot be assessed.
Unknown if assessed.
Not documented in patient record.
For sites that have no TNM staging: Not applicable.