What stage classification system is commonly used for pediatric malignancies?

The staging of pediatric malignancies often adopts the staging criteria established by the Children's Oncology Group (COG), which has developed specific classification systems tailored to the unique aspects of pediatric cancers. This acknowledgment stems from the fact that the growth patterns, biology, and treatment responses of tumors in children can differ significantly from those seen in adults.

While the TNM classification system (which stands for Tumor, Nodes, Metastasis) is widely utilized for adult tumors and some pediatric cases, it does not comprehensively address all the nuances relevant to pediatric populations. Therefore, both the COG's guidelines and the more general TNM system can be applied in various scenarios, which is why the answer includes both systems as integral components of staging practices for pediatric malignancies.

In cases where either the COG staging criteria or the TNM classification can be applied, recognizing the relevance of both strengthens the overall understanding of pediatric cancer management and aligns with current methodologies in oncology. Thus, the inclusion of both the staging criteria for the COG along with the TNM system reflects the dual approach often taken in practice, making the answer comprehensive.