Sentinel node procedure in vulvar carcinoma during pregnancy: A case report

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Vulvar cancer is rare, and its occurrence during pregnancy presents unique management challenges.
• The sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedure is a standard staging method for vulvar cancer, but its application in pregnancy is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a rare case of vulvar cancer diagnosed during pregnancy.
• To report the first instance of a vulvar sentinel node procedure performed in a pregnant patient.
• To discuss the safety and feasibility of the sentinel node procedure in the context of pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• A case report detailing the diagnosis and management of vulvar cancer in a pregnant patient.
• Description of the surgical technique for vulvar sentinel node biopsy during pregnancy.
• Review of safety considerations for both the pregnant patient and the fetus.

Main Results:

• Successful execution of a vulvar sentinel node procedure during pregnancy.
• No immediate adverse events reported for the mother or fetus related to the procedure.
• Pathological analysis of the sentinel node confirmed its utility in staging.

Conclusions:

• The sentinel node procedure for vulvar cancer can be safely performed during pregnancy.
• This approach allows for accurate staging while minimizing surgical morbidity.
• Further research is warranted to establish definitive safety protocols and long-term outcomes.