Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a common procedure for patients with breast cancer. The spelling of this complex medical term can be broken down into its phonetic components using IPA transcription. The word sentinel is pronounced /ˈsɛntənl/, with stress on the first syllable, while lymph is pronounced /lɪmf/, with stress on the final syllable. The word node is pronounced /noʊd/, with stress on the first syllable. Finally, biopsy is pronounced /ˈbaɪəˌpsi/, with stress on the second syllable. Together, these components create the unique spelling and pronunciation of the term sentinel lymph node biopsy.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a medical procedure used for staging and diagnosing certain types of cancers, particularly solid tumors that commonly metastasize or spread via the lymphatic system. The "sentinel lymph node" refers to the first lymph node or group of nodes that cancer is likely to spread to from the primary tumor. This node is recognized as being on the pathway to other nodes and organs and is crucial in determining whether cancer has spread beyond the primary tumor site.
During an SLNB, a radioactive dye or a radioactive tracer is injected near the tumor site, which helps identify and locate the sentinel lymph node. Alternatively, a blue dye may be injected to visually detect the primary draining lymph node. Once identified, the sentinel node is surgically removed and examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. If no cancer is found, it is highly likely that cancer has not spread to other lymph nodes or distant organs.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that has replaced the more extensive lymph node dissection or removal for cancer staging. It helps reduce the risk of complications associated with radical lymphadenectomy while still providing accurate staging information. SLNB is commonly performed in breast, melanoma, and other solid tumors, helping clinicians make informed decisions regarding further treatment, such as adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and ensuring appropriate disease management.