Sentinel lymph node mapping in early cervical cancer uses which tracer injected into the cervix to identify the first draining node?
- A Methylene blue injected intravenously
- B Indocyanine green (ICG) or technetium-99m nanocolloid ✓
- C Gadolinium contrast for MRI lymphography
- D Fluorine-18 FDG injected peritumourally
Correct answer: B. Indocyanine green (ICG) or technetium-99m nanocolloid
Explanation
Sentinel lymph node biopsy in cervical cancer uses tracers injected directly into the cervical stroma: technetium-99m nanocolloid (detected by gamma probe), patent blue/isosulfan blue dye (visual), or indocyanine green (ICG) detected by near-infrared fluorescence imaging. ICG is now preferred for its superior detection rates. Methylene blue IV, gadolinium, and FDG-PET are not used for intraoperative sentinel node mapping in this context.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.