Tumörgränser

Tumörgränser, also known as tumor margins, refer to the boundaries or edges of a tumor. These margins are crucial in the diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning of cancer. They are typically assessed during surgical procedures, where the surgeon attempts to remove the entire tumor along with a margin of surrounding tissue. The goal is to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed, which is essential for preventing recurrence and improving patient outcomes.

The extent of tumor margins can be categorized into different grades, which are used to guide treatment decisions. For example, a clear margin (R0) indicates that no cancer cells were found at the surgical edge, suggesting a complete resection. A positive margin (R1 or R2), on the other hand, indicates that cancer cells were present at the surgical edge, which may necessitate additional treatment such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The assessment of tumor margins is a critical factor in determining the prognosis and the effectiveness of the chosen treatment plan.