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Published on: August 19, 2021
Lymphatic mapping and sentinel node biopsy in Merkel's cell carcinoma
J Ortin-Perez1, M C van Rijk, R A Valdes-Olmos
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Spain. jortinperez@hotmail.com
Summary
Sentinel node biopsy is a reliable staging method for Merkel's cell carcinoma. This technique accurately identifies metastatic disease, guiding further treatment and preventing unnecessary procedures.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Merkel's cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer.
- Accurate staging is crucial for effective treatment planning and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the predictive value of lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in MCC patients.
- To assess the reliability of SLNB as a staging technique for MCC.
Main Methods:
- Eight MCC patients underwent SLNB using lymphoscintigraphy with 99mTc-nanocolloid.
- Sentinel nodes were identified intraoperatively using a gamma probe and patent blue dye.
- All identified sentinel nodes were successfully harvested for pathological examination.
Main Results:
- Sentinel nodes were visualized and successfully harvested in all patients.
- Metastatic deposits were found in 37.5% of patients, leading to regional lymphadenectomy.
- No additional involved nodes were found, and no recurrence was reported during a median follow-up of 4.6 years.
Conclusions:
- Sentinel node biopsy is a reliable and effective staging technique for Merkel's cell carcinoma.
- SLNB accurately identifies nodal metastasis, potentially avoiding more extensive surgery.
- The technique demonstrated a low rate of recurrence in the follow-up period.
