‘T’ staging of Glottic cancer with fixed vocal cords is
**Core Concept**
The 'T' staging of glottic cancer refers to the classification of the primary tumor based on its size and extent of invasion into the vocal cords and surrounding tissues. In the context of glottic cancer with fixed vocal cords, the 'T' staging is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and prognosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
When the vocal cords are fixed, it indicates a more advanced tumor invasion into the laryngeal cartilages or surrounding tissues. In the TNM staging system, glottic cancer with fixed vocal cords is classified as T4. This is because the tumor has invaded through the vocal cords into adjacent structures, such as the epiglottis, arytenoids, or thyroid cartilage.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately reflect the 'T' staging of glottic cancer with fixed vocal cords. T1 typically describes a small tumor limited to one vocal cord.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is not a valid 'T' stage for glottic cancer. T3 may describe a larger tumor with vocal cord fixation, but it does not account for invasion into surrounding tissues.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately reflect the 'T' staging of glottic cancer with fixed vocal cords. T2 typically describes a tumor that has spread to the anterior commissure or has caused vocal cord mobility impairment.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When assessing glottic cancer, it is essential to evaluate vocal cord mobility and fixation, as this can significantly impact the 'T' staging and treatment plan.
**Correct Answer:** T4.