Data collection
The use of SPECT/CT for LM in melanoma patients was
introduced in our unit in 2010. Between October 2010 and
October 2011 we collected retrospective data on 32 patients
undergoing SPECT/CT prior to wide local excision of a
cutaneous melanoma and sentinel lymph node biopsy
(SLNB). Information on patient sex, age, melanoma site,
melanoma type, Breslow thickness, SLNB site, SLN number
visualised by PL and SPECT/CT, and SLNB result was
collected. Lymph nodes connected to the primary injection
site by afferent lymphatics were considered to be SLNs. In
the absence of visible afferent channels, those nodes
accumulating the greatest concentration of radiotracer or
those appearing first in a nearby drainage basin were also
considered to be SLNs.