Ambiguous Terminology Considered Diagnostic of Cancer**
- apparent(ly)
- appears
- comparable with
- compatible with
- consistent with
- favors
- malignant
- most likely
- presumed
- probable
- suspect(ed)
- suspicious (for)
- typical of
For 2004 diagnosis forward and only for C70.0-C72.9, C75.1-C75.3:
- neoplasm
- tumor
Exception: If the only evidence for a case is a cytology report that uses any of the above ambiguous terms and if neither a positive biopsy nor a physician’s clinical impression supports the cytology findings, do not report this case to the Louisiana Tumor Registry.
Ambiguous Terminology NOT Considered Diagnostic of Cancer**
- cannot be ruled out
- equivocal
- possible
- potentially malignant
- questionable
- rule out
- suggests
- worrisome
** Do not substitute synonyms such as “supposed” for “presumed” or “equal” for “comparable.” Do not substitute “likely” for “most likely.” Use only the exact words on the list.