Understanding the Stages of Carcinoma of Unknown Primary Origin

The stage of cancer tells how much and how far the cancer has spread. By using exams and tests, a doctor can tell the stage of your cancer.

Most cancers are staged with the Roman numerals I, II, III, and IV. I is the earliest stage and IV is the most advanced stage. If you have been diagnosed with carcinoma of unknown primary origin (CUP), your cancer has spread from an unknown origin. You are considered to have advanced metastatic cancer. If you have only a single site of known cancer, local treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy may help.