What is Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a surgical procedure used in the staging of cancer. It involves the removal and examination of the sentinel lymph nodes, which are the first lymph nodes to which cancer cells are likely to spread from a primary tumor. The technique is most commonly used in cancers such as
breast cancer and
melanoma.
How is SLNB Performed?
During SLNB, a tracer material, such as a
radioactive substance or a dye, is injected near the tumor site. This tracer travels the same path that cancer cells would take to reach the lymph nodes. The sentinel lymph nodes are then located using a special device that detects the tracer. These nodes are surgically removed and sent to a pathology lab for analysis.
Why is SLNB Important?
SLNB helps to determine whether cancer has spread to the lymphatic system, which can influence treatment decisions and prognosis. It is less invasive than traditional lymph node dissection, which removes a larger number of lymph nodes and can result in more side effects, such as
lymphedema.
Who Should Consider SLNB?
SLNB is generally recommended for patients with early-stage cancers where there is a higher risk of lymph node involvement. It is often used for patients with
early-stage breast cancer, melanoma, and certain types of
head and neck cancers. Your oncologist will determine if you are a candidate for SLNB based on the specifics of your cancer.
Minimally Invasive: Compared to full lymph node dissection, SLNB involves fewer surgical risks and a shorter recovery time.
Accurate Staging: Provides precise information about the spread of cancer, which is crucial for staging and treatment planning.
Reduced Morbidity: Lower risk of complications such as lymphedema, infection, and nerve damage.
Allergic Reactions: Rare reactions to the tracer material.
Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the biopsy site.
Lymphedema: Although less common than with full lymph node dissection, there is still a small risk of developing lymphedema.
Nerve Damage: Temporary or permanent nerve damage can occur, leading to numbness or pain.
What Happens After SLNB?
After the sentinel lymph nodes are removed, they are examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. If cancer is found in the sentinel nodes, additional lymph nodes may need to be removed, and the patient may require further treatment such as
radiation therapy,
chemotherapy, or
targeted therapy. If no cancer is found, it is likely that the cancer has not spread, and additional lymph node removal may not be necessary.
Conclusion
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a valuable tool in the management of certain types of cancer. It provides essential staging information with fewer side effects compared to traditional methods. Discuss with your healthcare provider whether SLNB is appropriate for your specific case to ensure the best possible outcome.
