Diagnostic biopsy of cutaneous melanoma, sentinel lymph node biopsy and indications for lymphadenectomy.
Title | Diagnostic biopsy of cutaneous melanoma, sentinel lymph node biopsy and indications for lymphadenectomy. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2022 |
Authors | Pavlidis, E. T., & Pavlidis T. E. |
Journal | World J Clin Oncol |
Volume | 13 |
Issue | 10 |
Pagination | 861-865 |
Date Published | 2022 Oct 24 |
ISSN | 2218-4333 |
Abstract | The incidence of cutaneous melanoma appears to be increasing worldwide and this is attributed to solar radiation exposure. Early diagnosis is a challenging task. Any clinically suspected lesion must be assessed by complete diagnostic excision biopsy (margins 1-2 mm); however, there are other biopsy techniques that are less commonly used. Melanomas are characterized by Breslow thickness as thin (< 1 mm), intermediate (1-4 mm) and thick (> 4 mm). This thickness determines their biological behavior, therapy, prognosis and survival. If the biopsy is positive, a wide local excision (margins 1-2 cm) is finally performed. However, metastasis to regional lymph nodes is the most accurate prognostic determinant. Therefore, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for diagnosed melanoma plays a pivotal role in the management strategy. Complete lymph node clearance has undoubted advantages and is recommended in all cases of positive SLN biopsy. A PET-CT (positron emission tomography-computed tomography) scan is necessary for staging and follow-up after treatment. Novel targeted therapies and immunotherapies have shown improved outcomes in advanced cases. |
DOI | 10.5306/wjco.v13.i10.861 |
Alternate Journal | World J Clin Oncol |
PubMed ID | 36337309 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC9630995 |