Is Sentinel Node Biopsy Needed for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

My dad had 6mm by 6mm lesion on forehead two months ago. It was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma (biopsy was done; pathology report said it was well differentiated, invasive, and the examined inked margins were free). We went with Moh's surgery and margins were found clear when first layer was removed and examined by Moh's surgeon. I wanted to request guidance on whether Sentinel Node Biopsy should be done in such cases (to be 100%sure). Many thanks, in advance. Please, kindly reply.

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by sbalhaea

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Sentinel Node Biopsy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Whenever you consider a procedure, you think about the potential risks of the procedure (including financial costs) vs. the potential benefits. In my opinion there is minimal benefit to perform sentinel node biopsy on a small, well-differentiated, squamous cell carcinoma on the forehead treated with Mohs surgery (and with clear margins on the biopsy). Risk factors that would increase consideration of performing sentinel node biopsy would include large size, deep penetration, poorly... more

Sentinel Node Biopsy after Mohs

Unless your father has had other cancers in his body, a sentinel node biopsy wouldn't be necessary after Mohs for squamous cell carcinoma and in all honestly, probably wouldn't be covered by his insurance in this case either, and it's a very expensive procedure! From your statements the initial path report didn't show the SCC was abnormal or had any other types of cancer cells apparent. A sentinel node biopsy would only need to be done (and approved by insurance) if other cancer type cells... more