Sentinel node biopsy in the management of malignant melanoma

• Published in: Clinical and experimental dermatology Vol. 26; no. 6; pp. 463 - 468
• Main Authors: Russell-Jones, R., Acland, K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Science Ltd 01-09-2001; Blackwell; Oxford University Press
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Biomarkers, Tumor - analysis; Dermatology; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Medical sciences; Melanoma - pathology; Neoplasm Staging; S100 Proteins - analysis; Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy - methods; Skin Neoplasms - pathology; Tumors of the skin and soft tissue. Premalignant lesions; Human; Skin disease; Clinical management; Biopsy; Sentinel lymph node; Malignant melanoma; Strategy; Skin; Malignant tumor
• ISSN: 0307-6938; 1365-2230
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2230.2001.00868.x

The technique of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy has been in use for almost a decade, but its effect on survival has not yet been established. It is however the most accurate method for staging patients with primary cutaneous melanoma who lack clinical evidence of metastatic disease. This article discusses the rationale and logistics of SLN biopsy, and the management strategies that can be employed in those patients who are SLN positive. Future therapeutic trial in patients with primary cutaneous melanoma will only be meaningful if the SLN status of the subjects is established.