Usefulness of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for Ipsilateral Breast Tumor Recurrence

Abstract

Introduction : Some studies have reported contralateral axillary, internal mammary, and supraclavicular lymph node metastases in patients with ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR). The lymphatic flow pathway may be altered after partial mastectomy, and new sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) may be identified.

Method : We reviewed 15 cases of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) performed for IBTR at our hospital over the past 5 years.

Results : Using preoperative lymphoscintigraphy, we identified SLNs in all 15 patients. Radioisotope accumulation was observed in ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes in nine, contralateral axillary lymph nodes in nine, ipsilateral internal mammary lymph nodes in two, and ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph nodes in one patient. Intraoperatively, we identified SLNs in the ipsilateral and contralateral axillary lymph nodes in eight patients each.

Conclusion : This study highlights the feasibility and usefulness of SLNB in patients with IBTR similar to its role in those with primary breast cancer. In our opinion, confirmation of lymphatic flow may be a useful indicator to guide postoperative follow-up even without intraoperative identification of SLNs.