The TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) staging system

reflects the anatomic extent of lung cancer and seems

to be the best prognostic indicator of overall survival in

NSCLC patients. Moreover, staging of NSCLC suggests

but does not dictate a certain type of treatment for each

TNM category. It is also a common language between the

medical sub-specialties who are involved in the management

of NSCLC and is a useful tool for the evaluation of response

to NSCLC treatment.