Person neoplasm cancer status

[gizemg...@gmail.com]

Dear GDAC team,

I would like to analyze mRNAseq data for several cancers and use "Person_neoplasm_cancer_status" parameter including "tumor-free/with tumor" terms in clinical data for comparison of samples. But, i could not find any information about the exact description of these terms in your website or FAQ. I think that tumor-free sample and normal sample are not the same concept. If there is any information about this matter, i would be pleased if you can inform me.

Best regards,

Gizem

[Michael Noble]

Dear Gizem,

Take a look at the CDE list now maintained at the GDC, and in particular note the "Last Known Disease Status" term, which AFAIK is the nearest 'currently available" description of these terms as originally utilized in TCGA.  You are correct, IMO:  "tumor free" does not mean "normal," but rather whether (or not) the tumor (neoplasm) continues to be present.  It is a statement about the progression (or not) of the original disease; whereas "normal" is a statement that there was no disease to begin with.

Best,

Michael

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Michael S. Noble

Associate Director for Data Science

Cancer Genome Computational Analysis

Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

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Thank You,

Michael S. Noble

Associate Director for Data Science

Cancer Genome Computational Analysis
Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard