Klin Onkol 2007; 20(4): 287-293.
Long-term survival of individuals with head and neck squamous-cell carcinoma is significantly lower if concurrent or subsequent metastatic spread into regional lymph nodes occurs. Subclinical affliction of the lymphatic system (cN0) is present in 6 - 57 % of newly-diagnosed patients. Sentinel lymph node biopsy, routinely used in malignant melanoma and breast cancer staging, is currently being implemented in head and neck cancer cases in many centers worldwide.The 99Tc radiocolloid, preferably, or the blue dye (less frequently used in this area), are employed to detect the sentinel node. The marked sentinel node has to be extirpated within 24 hours of application of the lymphotropic substance.The extirpated node is worked up according to the sentinel-node guidelines (step-serial sectioning, immunohistochemical staining).This review mentions the indications and contraindications for lymphoscintigraphy in squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck.Current findings suggest the method is beneficial for the head and neck area; however, longterm studies on larger cohorts of patients are needed.
