The difference between stage and grade in breast cancer is as follows:

- Stage
- Definition: Describes the likely pattern of growth and spread of the cancer.
- Factors: Traditionally based on the size of the primary tumor, the number of lymph nodes involved, and whether the cancer has metastasized (spread to other Show Full Answer

The difference between stage and grade in breast cancer is as follows:

- Stage:
- Definition: Describes the likely pattern of growth and spread of the cancer.
- Factors: Traditionally based on the size of the primary tumor, the number of lymph nodes involved, and whether the cancer has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body).
- Purpose: Helps predict how aggressive the cancer will be and guides the oncologist in recommending the most effective treatment.
- Additional Criteria: Since 2018, the stage also considers the grade of the tumor and the molecular subtype.

- Grade:
- Definition: Describes the appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope.
- Grading Scale: Invasive tumors are graded 1 (low), 2 (medium), or 3 (high) based on how much they look and grow like normal cells.
- Characteristics: Low-grade tumors are well-differentiated (look and grow like normal cells), while high-grade tumors are poorly differentiated (appear abnormal and grow in an unusual pattern).
- Noninvasive Tumors: May be described as low, medium, or high rather than numbered.

Both stage and grade are crucial for determining the prognosis and treatment plan for breast cancer.

 This AI-generated response comes from MyBCTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Breast Cancer: Stage and Grade | MyBCTeam

Stage 1 Breast Cancer: Treatment and Prognosis | MyBCTeam