Handling, sampling and stage evaluation of renal cell carcinoma: a practical guide

Tumor stage is considered the single most important prognostic factor in renal cell carcinoma. The most critical issue when determining the pathologic stage is whether the tumor is organ-confined or has spread outside of the organ and invaded the perinephric tissues and the adjacent structures. Proper handling and sampling of nephrectomy specimens is essential for accurate determination of pathologic stage and other relevant tumor parameters. …