Definition: The sentinel lymph node biopsy is a procedure used to determine if melanoma has metastasized (spread) to the lymph nodes. It is useful for determining prognosis, stage, and treatment options.
The procedure identifies the lymph nodes that drain lymph fluid from the area of the skin where the melanoma started. If the melanoma has spread, these lymph nodes are usually the first place it will go.
Also Known As: sentinel node biopsy, SLNB, sentinel lymph node mapping
Common Misspellings: sentinal node biopsy, sintinel node biopsy, limf, lymf, SNLB
