Review of sentinel lymph node research from the viewpoint of clinical significance
Miwa, K.; Nishimura, G.; Tsugawa, K.; Kinami, S.
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer and ChemoTherapy 31(3): 457-460
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0385-0684 PMID: 15045962 Document Number: 569777
We report on the clinical significance of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in the 3 major visceral cancers for which these biopsies are performed. In cases of gastric cancer, the SLN concept was established from the viewpoint that QOL was clearly improved by a reduction in lymph node dissections or the extent of gastric resection. In such cases, it would be of great clinical significance if it was possible to determine the appropriateness of lymph node dissection. For colon cancer, SLNs are expected to become an indicator for lateral lymph node dissection in cases of rectal cancer, and to contribute to a more efficient diagnosis of micrometastasis. In cases of breast cancer, where SLN biopsies are already being used to determine axillary nodal status to obviate axillary lymph node dissection, SLNs also help to more accurately classify the stage of the disease. This helps in determining appropriate multidisciplinary treatment. Thus, SLNs help to promote the streamlining of cancer treatments, albeit the significance varies depending on the affected viscera. We therefore believe SLN research to be very important.