Molecular Imaging of the Sentinel Lymph Node via Lymphoseek

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed with increasing frequency in patients undergoing surgery for early-stage cancer to avoid unnecessary lymphadenectomy in patients whose sentinel node is negative for metastatic disease. Mapping of the sentinel node via nuclear imaging involves the injection of a radiotracer into the vicinity of the tumor and the subsequent localization of the sentinel node by lymphoscintigraphy and gamma probe detection. Lymphoseek is a new radiotracer specifically designed for sentinel node mapping. It exhibits properties that are advantageous over other radiotracers such as filtered technetium-99m sulfur colloid. Preclinical studies demonstrate improved pharmacokinetic qualities and reduced radiation exposure, when using Lymphoseek compared with radiocolloids. Phase I and Phase II clinical trials conducted in breast cancer and melanoma patients confirmed Lymphoseek’s safety in patients and improved identification of the sentinel lymph node. Preclinical studies also demonstrate potential applications of Lymphoseek in patients with gastric, colon, or prostate cancer. Additionally, Lymphoseek can be applied in minimally invasive procedures, which is currently becoming an essential technique in surgery.