Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Test
A sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) checks your lymph nodes for cancer cells to help determine the stage of your cancer and guide treatment.
What this test measures
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure that finds, removes, and checks the sentinel lymph node (the first lymph node where cancer is most likely to spread) for cancer cells.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
If your results are positive, it means cancer was found in the sentinel lymph node and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes and/or other organs.
Lower-than-normal results
If your results are negative, it means no cancer cells were found in the sentinel lymph node, and it's unlikely that the cancer has spread.
Frequently asked questions
What is a sentinel lymph node biopsy?
It is a surgical procedure that checks your lymph nodes for cancer cells to determine the stage of your cancer.
Who needs a sentinel lymph node biopsy?
It is only done if you have already been diagnosed with cancer, most often breast cancer or melanoma.
How is the sentinel lymph node found?
The sentinel lymph node is usually located near the original tumor site and may receive drainage from the tumor.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means cancer was found in the sentinel lymph node and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes and/or other organs.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no cancer cells were found in the sentinel lymph node, and it's unlikely that the cancer has spread.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.