What Happens When the Sentinel Node Is Found To Be Cancerous?
After the surgeon removes the sentinel node(s), a pathologist will perform a preliminary examination of the nodes to determine whether they contain cancer cells. The sentinel lymph nodes will be classified as negative (no cancer), positive (contain cancer), or indeterminate. However, this preliminary report is followed by close examination and the final pathology report. If the sentinel node is determined to be cancerous while the patient is still in surgery, the surgeon will usually remove additional lymph nodes in the axilla. However, the final pathology report is not available until after the surgery has been completed, and patients should schedule a follow-up visit with the surgeon to discuss the final report. Sometimes, the final report indicates a positive (cancerous) sentinel node that was not seen on preliminary review. If this occurs, then additional surgery may be necessary to remove more nodes for examination. What Are the Side Effects of a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy? Becaus
