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Implications of popliteal lymph node detected by sentinel lymph node biopsy
Naohito Hatta1, Reiji Morita, Mizuki Yamada
1Department of Dermatology, Kanazawa University School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Japan. hattanao@tch.pref.toyama.jp
Summary
Popliteal sentinel lymph nodes are frequently detected in lower extremity skin cancers. Biopsy is recommended when these nodes are identified, as they can harbor metastasis not found in inguinal nodes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Popliteal metastasis from lower leg skin tumors is rare despite lymphatic drainage.
- Sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) outside conventional basins are increasingly recognized.
- Investigating popliteal SLN incidence and biopsy indications is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of SLNs in the popliteal region for lower extremity skin cancers.
- To evaluate the clinical significance and necessity of popliteal SLN biopsy.
Main Methods:
- Lymphoscintigraphy and sentinel lymph node biopsy were performed on 14 patients with lower extremity skin cancers.
- Histopathological examination of identified SLNs.
Main Results:
- Inguinal SLNs were identified in all patients.
- Popliteal SLNs were detected in 36% (5/14) of patients.
- One patient with acral melanoma showed micrometastasis in a popliteal SLN, but not in the inguinal SLN.
Conclusions:
- Sentinel lymph nodes in the popliteal fossa are commonly identified via lymphoscintigraphy.
- Biopsy of popliteal SLNs is indicated when detected, due to their potential to harbor metastasis.