What is a sentinel lymph node biopsy?

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI), a sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node to which cancer cells are most likely to spread from a primary tumor. A sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a procedure in which the sentinel lymph node is identified, removed, and examined to determine whether cancer cells are present. The NCI explains that a negative result suggests cancer has not yet spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, while a positive result indicates that cancer is present in the sentinel node and may have spread to other nearby lymph nodes. This information can help a doctor determine the stage of the cancer and develop an appropriate treatment plan. This is general information, not personal medical advice.

Last updated: 2026-07-12

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