The process involves assigning a grade to the most prevalent and second most prevalent patterns of prostate cancer cells observed under a microscope. These grades range from 1 to 5, with 1 indicating cells that closely resemble normal prostate tissue, and 5 indicating highly abnormal and aggressive cells. The sum of these two grades determines the final score. For instance, if the most common pattern is grade 3, and the second most common pattern is grade 4, the resulting sum would be 7. This sum is then used for prognosis and treatment planning.
This scoring system is a crucial tool in determining the aggressiveness of prostate cancer and guiding treatment decisions. Introduced in the 1960s, it provides a standardized method for pathologists to communicate the characteristics of the cancer to oncologists and other healthcare professionals. Its enduring utility lies in its ability to predict the likelihood of cancer progression and response to therapy, thereby impacting patient management strategies. The higher the number, the more aggressive the cancer is likely to be.
