Predictors of Sentinel Lymph Node Metastasis in Melanoma

In a retrospective chart review of 348 melanoma patients who underwent sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy at the University of Alberta from January 1999 to April 2007, Breslow thickness and nodular tumor type were identified as independent predictors of positive SLN biopsy results. The study confirmed the established role of Breslow thickness as a predictor and found that nodular type was also predictive, which had not been reported by others. However, the study did not incorporate the new American Joint Committee on Cancer melanoma staging system, particularly the role of mitotic rate in SLN status. Additionally, there was confusion regarding the correlation between head and neck tumor location and SLN status, with contradictory statements about whether it was associated with positive or negative SLN results, indicating a need for clarification in the results section.