The short answer
After surgery, a pathologist checks the edges of the removed tissue. A "negative" or "clear" margin means no cancer cells were seen at the edge — a reassuring result. A "close" margin means cancer came near the edge but didn't reach it; whether that's close enough to act on depends on the cancer type. Neither result decides your outcome alone, and the definition of an acceptable margin varies by cancer.
Negative (clear) margin: no cancer cells at the cut edge — generally reassuring.
Close margin: cancer is near the edge but not touching it; significance depends on the cancer type.
There is no single "safe" distance across all cancers — standards differ.
Margins are one factor among grade, stage, and biomarkers.
Choose how you want to understand this
The full explanation.
Where you'll see this phrase
The margin section of a surgical pathology report. You may see "margins negative," "margins uninvolved," "clear margins," or a measurement like "tumor 3 mm from the closest margin."
What each means in plain language
- Negative / clear margin — the pathologist saw no cancer cells at the inked edge of the removed tissue. This suggests the visible cancer was removed with a rim of normal tissue around it.
- Close margin — cancer cells came near the edge without reaching it. "Close" is a judgment call that depends on the cancer type and how much healthy tissue could be removed safely.
Why the distance matters
A wider clear margin generally means less chance of cancer cells remaining near the site. But "wider is always better" isn't the whole story — surgeons protect important nearby structures, and different cancers have different accepted standards.
What it does not mean
- A clear margin does not guarantee no cancer remains anywhere, and it doesn't address spread to other parts of the body.
- A close margin is not automatically bad news — for some cancers it's perfectly acceptable.
What context is still needed
The only way to know whether your margin is "enough" is for your care team to apply the standard for your specific cancer. This page explains the words; it can't interpret your result.
Words to know
Tap any term to see what it means.
Common questions
▸How wide does a clear margin need to be?
It depends on the cancer. For some cancers 'no ink on tumor' is enough; others aim for several millimeters. Your care team applies the standard for your specific cancer.
▸Is a close margin treated like a positive margin?
Sometimes. Depending on the cancer and location, a close margin may lead to more surgery, radiation, or simply closer monitoring. Your team will explain which applies to you.
Questions to ask your doctor
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Your next step
Plain-language definitions for the words on your report.
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