What is the sentinel lymph node?

The sentinel lymph node is the lymph node that the tumor cells reach first when they spread in the lymphatic system. If this lymph node is free of tumor cells, then all others are also free and lymph node infection can be ruled out. This can be used diagnostically by injecting a radioactive tracer into the vicinity of the tumor before the tumor is removed.

The tracer accumulates in the sentinel lymph node so that it can be identified with the aid of special detectors. The sentinel lymph node is removed individually and examined under the microscope for malignant cells. If it is free of tumor cells, there is no need to remove further lymph nodes.

What is the chance of cure/survival if a lymph node is affected?

In the case of cancer, the chances of recovery are often given in terms of the 5-year survival rate. This number indicates the percentage of patients who are still alive 5 years after diagnosis. The 5-year survival rate for breast cancer patients with lymph node involvement is between 50% and 90%.

The decisive factor here is how many lymph nodes are affected and where they are located. The size of the actual tumor, as well as its characteristics (malignancy, growth rate, receptor status), age and general condition also influence the chances of cure. In general, it is therefore difficult to commit to a percentage figure.

Therefore, the treatment concept and the wishes and ideas should always be discussed individually with the patient. However, it should be emphasized that the treatment approach for breast cancer with lymph node involvement (without organ involvement) is curative in most cases, i.e. the treatment aims at a complete cure. Which might also be of interest to you: Aftercare for breast cancer Therefore, the treatment concept and the wishes and ideas should always be discussed individually with the patient. However, it should be emphasized that the treatment approach for breast cancer with lymph node involvement (without organ involvement) is curative in most cases, i.e. the treatment aims at a complete cure. Which might also be of interest to you: Aftercare for breast cancer