THE INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES FOR ONCOLOGY (ICD-O) AS A KNOWLEDGE ORGANIZATION TOOL IN ONCOLOGY

evolution and applications in professional practice

Authors

  • Lorena Estévez-Iglesias Universidad de León
  • Blanca Rodríguez-Bravo Universidad de León - Facultad de Filosofía y Letras
  • Daniel Martínez-Ávila Universidad de León - Facultad de Filosofía y Letras

Keywords:

ICD-O, Specialized classification, Knowledge organization, Cancer registries

Abstract

The ICD-O is a fundamental tool in the organization of oncological knowledge, although its definition as a nomenclature in the official WHO manual raises debate about its suitability as a specialized classification system. This study examines its historical evolution, structure, and applications in professional practice, assessing its capacity to code tumor topography, morphology, and behavior. The findings demonstrate that the ICD-O meets the essential requirements of a specialized classification system, including systematicity, hierarchy, flexibility, and adaptability. Its implementation has facilitated the standardization of information, contributing to clinical diagnosis, epidemiological research, and healthcare planning. Furthermore, the analysis highlights its relevance as a tool for medical knowledge management and its potential for continued improvement in future revisions. This study underscores the utility of the ICD-O beyond a mere nomenclature, establishing it as a robust system for oncology

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Published

2025-05-30

How to Cite

Estévez-Iglesias, L., Rodríguez-Bravo, B., & Martínez-Ávila, D. (2025). THE INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES FOR ONCOLOGY (ICD-O) AS A KNOWLEDGE ORGANIZATION TOOL IN ONCOLOGY: evolution and applications in professional practice. Páginas a&b, 163–182. Retrieved from https://ojs.letras.up.pt/index.php/paginasaeb/article/view/15320