Intermediate
Technical
IVT
sentinel lymph node
Also written as: SLN — Sentinel Lymph Node
First lymph node to receive drainage from a primary tumor, used for staging assessment.
Full Definition
A sentinel lymph node (SLN) is the first lymph node or group of nodes to receive lymphatic drainage from a primary tumor site. In gynecologic oncology, sentinel lymph node mapping is increasingly used in cervical and endometrial cancers to guide surgical decision-making and reduce morbidity associated with complete lymphadenectomy. The technique involves injection of dyes or radiotracers to identify these key nodes for pathological assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Specify bilateral vs. unilateral mapping when documenting.
In Context
- "Bilateral sentinel lymph nodes were successfully identified and removed for pathological analysis." — operative report
- "Sentinel lymph node mapping avoided the need for complete pelvic lymphadenectomy." — surgical decision-making
Also known as
SLN
guard node
Contrasted with
non-sentinel node
Don't confuse with
regional lymph node
suspicious lymph node