Sentinel lymph node evaluation in endometrial cancer and the importance of micrometastases

Surg Oncol. 2008 Sep;17(3):237-45. doi: 10.1016/j.suronc.2008.04.001. Epub 2008 May 21.

Abstract

The presence of lymph node (LN) metastases has a major impact on the prognosis of women with endometrial cancer and compromises recurrence-free time. LN assessment has become the standard of care in the surgical staging of patients and plays a crucial role in decision making. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection improves the accuracy of lymphatic drainage mapping compared to pelvic node dissection used alone. Serial sectioning of SLNs followed by immunohistochemical examination with conventional histology improves accuracy of micrometastatic identification. In this review, we found a high incidence of micrometastases in endometrial cancer, reaching 25% depending on the stage and the techniques used for the node examination. Current data are insufficient to evaluate the prognostic impact of the presence of micrometastases, but it seems that more accurate detection of lymphatic spread will allow better stratification of intermediate risk patients. Ultimately, this will assist in tailoring adjuvant treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endometrial Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / diagnosis
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / secondary
  • Humans
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology*
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy / methods*