sentinel lymph node biopsy
Also written as: SLNB — sentinel lymph node biopsy
Surgical sampling of the first lymph node that receives drainage from a primary tumor to assess cancer spread.
Full Definition
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to determine whether cancer has spread to regional lymph nodes. The procedure involves injecting a tracer substance (radioactive tracer and/or blue dye) near the tumor site to identify the sentinel lymph node—the first node in the lymphatic drainage pathway. This node is then surgically removed and examined for cancer cells. If the sentinel node is negative for cancer, it is highly likely that the remaining lymph nodes are also cancer-free, potentially avoiding more extensive lymph node dissection. This technique is widely used in breast cancer and melanoma staging.
Usage
Usage note: When abbreviated as SLNB, no periods between letters. First use should spell out full term.
In Context
- "Sentinel lymph node biopsy revealed micrometastases in two of three nodes examined." — Pathology report
- "The decision for adjuvant chemotherapy was based on sentinel lymph node biopsy results." — Oncology consultation note