The place of lymphatic mapping and sentinel node biopsy in oncology

The techniques of sentinel lymphatic mapping (LM) and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) have become almost routine for the staging of clinically node-negative patients with high-risk cutaneous melanoma. The techniques are also widely applied to staging of the axilla in breast cancer. Investigations of the use of LM and SLNB for other solid malignancies have also shown promise. LM/SLNB requires a multidisciplinary effort involving experienced surgeons, nuclear medicine physicians, and surgical pathologists. The techniques require a learning curve for all involved personnel, requiring experience with at least 30 cases followed by complete nodal dissection after SLNB to achieve full competency. Surgical pathologists play a pivotal role in determining optimum sentinel node analysis. The techniques have lower morbidity and greater accuracy than traditional complete regional node dissection. Pathologists are receiving increasing numbers of SLN specimens and are expected to evaluate the results of the application of the LM/SLNB techniques to a range of solid tumors. We have reviewed LM/SLNB in regard to melanoma and breast cancer and other types of malignancies. The techniques have much to offer, but despite their seeming simplicity, need considerable technical skill and clinical judgment if they are to be effectively applied. They also provide unique opportunities for basic and translational research.