lymphatic mapping
Technique to identify drainage pathways of conjunctival tumors to regional lymph nodes for staging purposes.
Full Definition
Lymphatic mapping is a diagnostic technique used to identify the lymphatic drainage pathways from conjunctival tumors to regional lymph nodes, primarily for staging conjunctival melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The procedure typically involves injection of radioisotopes or dyes near the tumor site, followed by imaging to trace the drainage pattern to sentinel lymph nodes. This information is crucial for accurate staging, as conjunctival malignancies can metastasize via lymphatic spread to preauricular, submandibular, or cervical lymph nodes. Lymphatic mapping helps guide surgical planning and determine the need for lymph node sampling or dissection.
Usage
Usage note: Primarily used for conjunctival malignancies that can spread via lymphatics.
In Context
- "Lymphatic mapping identified drainage to the preauricular lymph node basin." — Nuclear medicine report
- "The patient underwent lymphatic mapping prior to wide local excision of conjunctival melanoma." — Surgical planning note