Predictive risk factors for sentinel lymph node nonvisualization on planar lymphoscintigraphy using an intratumoral injection in patients with primary breast cancer.

Objectives: Lymphoscintigraphy is considered a useful tool to optimize sentinel lymph node (SLN) identification. Nonvisualization of the SLN is associated with a lower SLN identification rate. The aim of this study was to identify preoperative factors associated with SLN nonvisualization on lymphoscintigraphy.

Sentinel lymph node nonvisualization after intratumoral radioisotope tracer injection in breast cancer is not associated with a higher nodal metastasis rate or worse outcomes.

Background And Objectives: Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy does not always visualize a sentinel lymph node (SLN). The study aim was to investigate whether persistent nonvisualization after additional single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT or a second radiotracer injection in breast cancer patients is associated with nodal metastases or worse outcome due to potential understaging and consequently undertreatment.

Methods: Altogether 2042 consecutive SLN procedures were evaluated.