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Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A targeted biopsy of the first lymph node to which a tumor drains.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a minimally invasive technique that targets the first node(s) draining a tumor. It allows accurate assessment of nodal involvement without performing a complete lymph node dissection.

Methods to identify the sentinel node include radioactive technetium-99m, blue dye (isosulfan/methylene blue) and indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence. These markers are typically used in combination to maximize accuracy.

It is the standard procedure in breast cancer and melanoma. After ACOSOG Z0011, axillary dissection is no longer routine in selected patients with limited sentinel node positivity. It is also used in vulvar, penile, head and neck and selected colorectal cancers.

Symptoms

Tumor diagnosis (breast/melanoma)
Clinically node-negative axilla
Mass on imaging
Suspicious node on ultrasound
Pigmented lesion (melanoma)
Decision required for staging
Pre-neoadjuvant evaluation

Risk Factors

Diagnosis of invasive breast cancer
Melanoma >1 mm thickness
Vulvar/penile cancer
T1-T2 head and neck cancer
Selected colorectal cancers
Pre-neoadjuvant nodal staging

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Newly diagnosed breast/melanoma
  • Inability to detect a positive node clinically
  • Choice between axillary dissection and SLNB
  • Postoperative recurrence finding
  • Pre-neoadjuvant therapy decision
  • Suspicious node detected on imaging

Treatment Methods

01
Combined dye + radiotracer technique
02
ICG fluorescence imaging
03
Intraoperative frozen section examination
04
Postoperative pathology decision
05
Adjuvant therapy according to staging
06
Lymphedema-prevention follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Genel Cerrahi Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.