AJCC Version 9 Cancer Staging System

AJCC Protocol for Cancer Staging Documentation, Version 9

The new AJCC Protocol Version 9 content is presented in a streamlined, easy-to-use format including synoptic staging report format, tables, explanatory notes, and illustrations. All disease sites in the 8^th Edition Cancer Staging Manual remain current until replaced with Version 9.

AJCC Cancer Staging System Protocol – Version 9

Click below to expand and see the various Version 9 Protocols by year.

Effective January 1, 2026, all Salivary Gland and HPV Associated Oropharyngeal Carcinomas are to be staged using the AJCC Version 9 protocols. However, because the corresponding CAP Cancer Protocols will not be released until March 2026, pathology reports issued prior to that date may continue to reference AJCC 8th Edition. Clinical teams should base staging on the relevant AJCC Version 9 clinical and pathological elements.

Contact Us

For questions regarding AJCC Version 9 staging, please contact ajcc@facs.org.
For questions regarding CAP Cancer Protocols, please contact cancerprotocols@cap.org.

American Joint Committee on Cancer and the College of American Pathologists

AJCC Current Staging System – 8th Edition or Version 9

Review the Current Staging System table to determine whether the disease site is 8th edition or Version 9.

Where to Find AJCC Content

• Individual subscriptions through AJCC Staging Online containing both AJCC 8th edition and Version 9
• Individual purchases through Amazon ebook or print
• Facility or institution through library services
• Commercial software and applications through AJCC API or AJCC DLL

Version 9 Frequently Asked Questions

AJCC Moved from Editions to Versions

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) made an important change to how it updates and releases Cancer Staging content. The AJCC shifted from a Cancer Staging Manual to a Cancer Staging System and moved away from Editions to Versions. Updated Version 9 disease sites go into effect on January 1 following their release.

Learn more about Version 9 Protocols and AJCC Staging Online