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Atypical Spitz tumours and sentinel lymph node biopsy: a systematic review
Aimilios Lallas1, Athanassios Kyrgidis2, Gerardo Ferrara3
1Skin Cancer Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Reggio Emilia, Italy.
The Lancet. Oncology
|April 4, 2014
Summary
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) does not appear to offer prognostic benefit for atypical Spitz tumours. Positive SLNB results do not predict poorer outcomes, suggesting alternative management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Atypical Spitz tumours require accurate prognostic assessment.
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is investigated for its role in staging these tumours.
- Current data suggest a discrepancy between SLNB findings and patient prognosis in atypical Spitz tumours.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review published literature.
- To evaluate the prognostic value of SLNB in atypical Spitz tumours.
- To determine if positive SLNB predicts a worse outcome.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published reports.
- Analysis of studies reporting on SLNB in atypical Spitz tumours.
- Assessment of the correlation between SLNB status and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Cell deposits are frequently found in sentinel lymph nodes of patients with atypical Spitz tumours.
- SLNB did not demonstrate prognostic benefit in this patient group.
- A positive sentinel lymph node does not appear to predict a poorer outcome.
Conclusions:
- SLNB is not a reliable prognostic indicator for atypical Spitz tumours.
- Complete excision with clear margins and clinical follow-up may be a prudent initial approach, particularly in paediatric patients.
- Further research may refine management strategies for atypical Spitz tumours.
