Applicability of the Sentinel Node Technique to Merkel Cell Carcinoma

摘要: Background. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) resembles malignant melanoma in several ways. Both are cutaneous lesions of the same embryonic origin. have an unpredictable biologic behavior, early regional lymph node involvement, distant metastases, and high recurrence rate. Objective. To apply sentinel technique described for to MCC light common features these two tumors. Methods. Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy, intraoperative lymphatic mapping, biopsy frozen section histology were performed guide surgical treatment three patients with MCC. Results. Application this approach is feasible, reproducible, seems reliable. Conclusion. The use will reduce number unnecessary lymphadenectomies, enable identification microscopic metastases nodes, improve stratification accrual into adjuvant protocols. It may even lead a survival benefit.