What Is the Prognostic Value of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Head and Neck Melanoma?

Malignant melanoma is a rapidly progressing cancer. 20% of all malignant melanomas occur in the head and neck [1]. Melanomas in the head and neck have generally poorer prognosis than melanomas in other regions. Additionally, the neck has highly variable and challenging anatomy. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is an effective diagnostic tool that has been used in many cancers, less commonly in head and neck malignancy. Research showed variable results on the effectiveness and safety of sentinel lymph node biopsy vs safety and high recurrence rates of head and neck cutaneous melanomas. This review aims to assess recent literature regarding sentinel lymph node biopsy in head and neck cutaneous melanoma and its prognostic value with a secondary aim to create an improved local management strategy targeting this specific field.