Sentinel Lymph Node in Melanoma - a Study Conducted in the South of Brazil.

Abstract Fundaments: Controversies remain among specialists whether it is advisable or not to perform sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with melanoma, although it is currently supported by most standard guidelines. We performed this study in order to identify which patients are more prone to present with a positive exam in a population with high melanoma rates in the south of Brazil. Materials and Methods: We performed a study in 62 consecutive patients who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy from 2003 to the early months of 2015 in the city of Blumenau – Santa Catarina, Brazil. Results: Breslow Thickness, ulceration, nodular subtype and Clark level IV were associated with PSLN status (p≤ 0,05).  Discussion: Although controversies remain on whether or not performing the procedure, most guidelines still support its indication. In order to lower the economical and physical impact, however, it would be a wise choice to try to determine which patients are more prone to present with a positive lymph node on the procedure and, perhaps, in the future, try to indicate the surgery to this particular group, which could benefit most from further treatment options.