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Should one perform a sentinel node biopsy in a clinically negative axilla prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy?

NSABP B51 and B52 specifically prohibit this.
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How do you evaluate the axilla in a breast cancer patient with no palpable axillary nodes prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy?

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2 Answers
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Radiation Oncology · Varian Medical Systems/Allegheny health network
Answered on

For an upfront clinically and radiologically negative axilla, where the SNLN is negative for disease after chemo, we don't change our RT field.

For an upfront clinically and radiologically negative or positive axilla where SNLN is positive even after chemo, then normally they undergo full dissection...

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Mednet Member
Mednet MemberInvited Expert
Radiation Oncology · Varian Medical Systems/Allegheny health network
Answered on

In the past there was some value in knowing nodal status before NACT, as the oncologist would decide about chemo based on nodal status. That argument has lost its relevance as now most often chemo is decided by tumor type and biological information rather than anatomical information. Avoiding surgic...

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