Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
A procedure to identify and sample the first lymph node(s) that drain from a primary tumor site.
Full Definition
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a minimally invasive staging procedure used primarily in melanoma and other skin cancers to determine lymphatic spread. The technique involves injecting radioactive tracer and/or blue dye near the primary tumor site to identify the first lymph node(s) in the drainage pathway. These sentinel nodes are then surgically removed and examined histologically for metastatic disease. SLNB provides important prognostic information and helps guide treatment decisions while avoiding the morbidity associated with complete lymph node dissection in node-negative patients.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as SLNB after first use; specify tracers used in operative documentation.
In Context
- "Sentinel lymph node biopsy was performed using technetium-99m and isosulfan blue dye." — Operative report
- "The sentinel lymph node biopsy was negative for metastatic melanoma." — Pathology report