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Popliteal lymph node metastasis from primary cutaneous melanoma
J F Thompson1, J A Hunt, G Culjak
1Sydney Melanoma Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, Australia. john@mel.rpa.cs.nsw.gov.au
Summary
Metastatic melanoma rarely involves the popliteal lymph nodes (0.31%). Full popliteal node clearance is only indicated for positive sentinel nodes or clinical evidence of metastasis in the popliteal fossa.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Melanoma metastasis can involve regional lymph nodes.
- The popliteal lymph nodes are a potential site for melanoma spread in lower limb primaries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of popliteal lymph node metastasis from primary melanomas of the distal lower limb.
- To evaluate the clinical implications for managing popliteal lymph node involvement.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a computerized database from the Sydney Melanoma Unit.
- Identification and examination of patients with primary melanomas at or distal to the knee.
Main Results:
- Popliteal lymph node metastases occurred in 13 of 4262 patients (0.31%).
- Six of these 13 patients also had groin lymph node metastases (previous, synchronous, or subsequent).
Conclusions:
- Popliteal lymph node involvement by melanoma is infrequent.
- Indications for popliteal lymph node clearance include a positive sentinel node or clinical metastasis in the popliteal fossa.