Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
07:51
The Application of 1% Methylene Blue Dye As a Single Technique in Breast Cancer Sentinel Node Biopsy
Published on: June 1, 2019
[Sentinel node detection applied to breast cancer: 2007 update]
J-M Classe1, G Houvenaeghel, C Sagan
1Service chirurgie oncologique, centre régional de lutte contre le cancer René-Gauducheau, site Hôpital-Nord, 44805 Nantes-Saint Herblain, France. jm-classe@nantes.fnclcc.fr
Summary
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) spares early breast cancer patients with low risk of metastasis an unnecessary axillary lymphadenectomy. This review details SLNB detection, resection, and analysis, highlighting its accuracy and reduced morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
- Nuclear Medicine
Context:
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a crucial technique in early breast cancer management.
- It aims to prevent unnecessary axillary lymphadenectomy in patients with low risk of lymph node involvement.
- This multidisciplinary approach involves surgeons, nuclear physicians, and pathologists.
Purpose:
- To review the current knowledge on SLNB for early breast cancer.
- To detail the methods of detection, surgical resection, and pathological analysis of sentinel lymph nodes.
- To discuss validated and controversial indications and ongoing clinical trials.
Summary:
- SLNB relies on accurate prediction of non-sentinel lymph node status and lower morbidity compared to axillary lymphadenectomy.
- Sentinel lymph nodes are identified using tracers like blue dye and technetium-labeled colloids, detected by gamma probe.
- Pathological analysis involves serial sectioning and potentially immunohistochemistry.
Impact:
- SLNB reduces patient morbidity by avoiding extensive surgery.
- Accurate pathological assessment of sentinel nodes is critical for treatment decisions.
- This technique optimizes care for early-stage breast cancer patients.
