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To achieve the best therapy success, the therapy must be planned based on the particular malignant disease as well as its stage. This strategy will improve the chances of cure or arrest of the cancer. With the TNM system, the severity of the malignancy can be checked during ongoing treatment and information provided as to whether the seriousness of your condition has decreased and you have changed to a lower cancer stage. The TNM system classifies the cancer and is based on the extent  of the cancer. The term has the following meaning: 

• T= Tumour size. This can be measured by X-ray and ultrasound, but, in the case of superficial tumours, can be felt by touch (e.g. on the thyroid).
• N = Lymph node involvement. The letter N denotes the Latin word for ‚nodus‘  or ‚knot‘. An  assessment of the lymph  node involvement can also be made by touch as well as by using a supplementary ultra sound investigation or other imaging methods (e.g. computer tomography  (CT), magnetic spin resonance (MRI).    
• M = Metastases. In checking for metastases, organs to which metastases may migrate or build up, are examined by touch (preferred) and also through ultra sound and other imaging methods. This is generally the skeleton, liver, lungs and the brain.

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