[Problem of the general rules and the TNM classification].

According to the TNM classification stage of disease progression, intrathoracic and lower esophagus carcinoma without good prognosis were stage II by T3. On the other hand, cardiac and cervical lymph node metastases with good prognosis were categorised as M1 and correspond to stage IV, so that the meaning of stage grouping is disappeared each other. A new classification of esophagus carcinoma based on the depth of invasion is proposed by the Esophagus Carcinoma Registration Committee.