Your body contains lymph nodes. These are small glands located in various places throughout the body, such as in your neck, armpits, and groin.
They are part of the immune system and filter fluid that flows through the body.
What is the sentinel node?
The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node to which lymphatic fluid drains from the area of the melanoma.
If melanoma cells were to spread through this fluid, this is therefore usually the first lymph node where they end up.
Therefore, examining this node can provide doctors with additional information about the melanoma.
When is the sentinel node examined?
A sentinel node biopsy is not necessary for every melanoma.
For melanomas measuring approximately 0.8 mm or more, the doctor may discuss whether a sentinel lymph node biopsy is appropriate.
The procedure is therefore only proposed if there is a reason for it based on the results.
How does the procedure work?
Before the surgery, a special substance is used to determine which lymph node is the sentinel node.
During the surgery, this node is removed. It is then very carefully examined under a microscope to see if melanoma cells are present.
What do the results mean?
If no melanoma cells are found in the sentinel node, that is favorable information.
If melanoma cells are found, it means the melanoma has spread to this lymph node. That information plays a role in determining the stage and the further treatment plan.
What is especially important to know?
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to check for very small metastases in the first draining lymph node.
The procedure therefore says more about whether the melanoma has spread beyond the original site.
Is anything in this explanation still unclear?
