What is the Significance of Tumor Margins in AJCC Staging?

Tumor margins refer to the edges of the removed tumor tissue. Clear or negative margins indicate that no cancer cells are found at the edges, which is a favorable outcome. Positive margins, where cancer cells are present at the edges, suggest that the tumor may not have been completely removed. Histological analysis of tumor margins is essential for accurate AJCC staging and determining the need for additional treatment.