The role of the sentinel lymph node in vulvar cancer

Abstract

The aim of this study was to update clinical practice applications and technical procedures regarding sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in vulvar cancer considering European experts' opinions from this field. Systematic data search performed using PubMed/medline database up to May 20, 2020. Focus was only for English language publications of original studies on SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer. Given the basis of published evidence and the consensus of European experts, this study provides an updated overview on clinical applications and technical procedures of SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer. In early-stage vulvar cancer patients with a negative sentinel node the groin recurrence rate is low, survival is excellent, and treatment-related morbidity is minimal. We advise that sentinel node dissection, performed by a quality-controlled multidisciplinary team, should be part of the standard treatment in selected patients with early-stage vulvar cancer.