The sentinel node in anal carcinoma.

AIMS AND BACKGROUND: Anal cancer is a rare condition. The inguinal lymph nodes are the most common site of metastasis in this neoplasm. The inguinal lymph node status is an important prognostic indicator and the presence of metastases is an independent prognostic factor for local failure and overall mortality. Depending on the primary tumor size and histological differentiation, metastasis to superficial inguinal lymph nodes occurs in 15-25% of cases. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: To evaluate the inguinal lymph node status we performed a search for the sentinel node in a female patient affected by squamous and carcinoma. RESULTS: Identification and examination of the sentinel node was positive and postoperative histology showed the presence of bilateral lymph node metastases. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that examination of the sentinel node in anal cancer could be an efficient way to establish the inguinal lymph node status, which would help the clinician to plan and perform adequate treatment.