A sentinel node biopsy is a surgical procedure used to determine if cancer has spread beyond a primary tumor into the lymphatic system. Here's a breakdown of key information:
What it is:
* It involves identifying and removing the "sentinel lymph node," which is the first lymph node to which cancer cells are most likely to spread.
* This node is considered the "gateway" to the rest of the lymph node system.
* If the sentinel node is cancer-free, it's highly likely that the cancer hasn't spread to other lymph nodes.
How it's done:
* A radioactive substance and/or a blue dye is injected near the tumor.
* These tracers travel through the lymphatic system to the sentinel node, making it visible.
* The surgeon locates and removes the sentinel node(s).
* The removed tissue is examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
Why it's done:
* To determine the stage of cancer.
* To guide treatment decisions.
* It can help avoid the removal of many lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy) if cancer has not spread, which can reduce the risk of complications like lymphedema.
* It is common practice for cancers such as:
* Breast cancer
* Melanoma
Key points:
* Lymph nodes are part of the immune system and help filter harmful substances.
* Cancer cells often spread to lymph nodes first.
* A negative sentinel node biopsy suggests cancer has not spread.
* A positive sentinel node biopsy may indicate the need for further treatment, such as additional lymph node removal.
I hope this information is helpful.
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