The earliest stage of colorectal cancers is called stage 0 (a very early cancer), and then range from stages I (1) through IV (4). As a rule, the lower the number, the less the cancer has spread.

Rectal cancer is typically classified in five stages, but there is no stage 5 rectal cancer. The stages are 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4. Higher numbers mean more-advanced cancer. Earlier stages often mean …

In stage I rectal cancer, cancer has formed in the mucosa (innermost layer) of the rectum wall and has spread to the submucosa (layer of tissue next to the mucosa) or to the muscle layer of the …

At MSK, treatment for rectal cancer starts with a correct diagnosis. We’re here to help you take the first steps toward getting the best cancer care. You may be reading this because you’re …

Oct 30, 2025 · Staging of rectal cancer uses the TNM staging system and strongly predicts the success, and rate, of local recurrence following rectal cancer resection. MRI is the modality of …

Nov 27, 2025 · This article is an overview of the staging and treatment options for rectal cancer.

There are two phases for cancer staging: a clinical stage and a pathological stage. Many colorectal cancers are found during colonoscopy, where a biopsy is taken and sent to …

Doctors use stages to describe how far the cancer has grown or spread. The higher the stage, the more advanced the cancer is. Stage 0: Cancer is only on the surface lining of the rectum. It …

Jun 9, 2022 · The stages of rectal cancer range from stage 0 to stage 4. Your cancer care team will recommend one or more of these treatments based on the stage of the cancer. They may …

For rectal cancer staging, Moffitt’s oncologists use the same staging system that they use for colon cancers. This system takes into consideration the extent of a cancer’s spread to three …