10-3-2025
Distinguishing between “X” and “Blank” in AJCC TNM staging is a frequent source of confusion. Below are some resources to educate and clarify the issue.
AJCC Curriculum for Registrars
- Lesson 9,10,18, 23, 24,25 Correct T/N category for uncertain information for Registrars
- 2024 AJCC Staging – Critical Staging Clarifications
- 2023 AJCC Staging: Understanding New Content and Clarification of Staging Issues
- 2021 AJCC TNM Staging System: Past, Present and Future Staging Issues
- 2020 Update on AJCC Eighth Edition TNM Staging
- 2019 Essentials of Navigating the AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, 8th Edition
- Blank vs X Definitions and Data Interpretation for AJCC Staging webinar
Summary Table
| Category | Assigned by | Meaning | When to Use |
| X | Managing Physician | Cannot assess due to lack of data | No exam/ imaging/ procedure results |
| Blank | Registrar | No valid staging info available | No physician documentation or data |
