pT Classification

Field Length:  4

The pathologic T field evaluates the primary tumor and reflects tumor size and/or extension following the completion of surgical therapy.

Code the pathologic T as documented by the treating physician(s) or the managing physician in the medical record.  If the managing physician has not recorded pathologic T, registrars should code this item based on the best available information, without necessarily requiring additional contact the physician.  

If the value is only one digit, record to the left and leave the remaining spaces blank. Choose the lower (less advanced) T category when there is any uncertainty. Refer to the AJCC Cancer Staging Manual for coding rules.