AJCC 8th Edition Staging of Oral Cavity Cancer: Radiologic Evaluation

Accurate staging is essential for establishing treatment strategies and predicting the prognosis of patients with head and neck cancer. Radiologic imaging plays a pivotal role in evaluating deep tissue invasion and regional nodal metastasis that extend beyond the limits of endoscopic evaluation. This review examines the revised staging system for oral cavity cancer in the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition, focusing on radiologically relevant parameters, particularly the tumor depth of invasion, and on key considerations in image interpretation. This article serves as a practical guide for radiologists to ensure accurate staging and facilitate effective communication with clinicians.