Lymphatic vessels and sentinel lymph nodes (SLN)

Lymphatic vessels and sentinel lymph nodes are integral components of the circulatory and immune systems, responsible for fluid drainage, lipid absorption, and the transport of immune cells (NIH, 2022; Frontiers, 2022). In oncology, the sentinel lymph node (SLN) is defined as the first node to receive drainage from a primary tumor, serving as a critical gateway for metastatic spread (NIH, 2021; ResearchGate, 2026). While not a single molecular target, these structures are clinically targeted for diagnostic mapping using dyes like isosulfan blue and radiopharmaceuticals like Technetium Tc-99m tilmanocept to guide surgical staging (NIH, 2021; PubMed, 2007). Additionally, the lymphatic system is increasingly utilized as a route for targeted drug delivery (LDDS), allowing for high local concentrations of chemotherapeutic agents in metastatic nodes while minimizing systemic side effects (ScienceDaily, 2024; NIH, 2022). Molecular markers such as VEGFR-3, LYVE-1, and Podoplanin are used to identify these vessels and are themselves targets for anti-lymphangiogenic therapies (MDPI, 2021; PubMed, 2007). Understanding the structural and molecular integrity of the lymphatic system is essential for predicting cancer progression and developing localized therapeutic interventions (NIH, 2021; Frontiers, 2022).

Other names

Lymphatic systemSentinel nodeLymphatic vasculatureRegional lymph nodesLymphatic network

Diagnostic mapping for surgical staging and identification of the first site of potential metastatic spread; lymphatic-targeted drug delivery for localized chemotherapy.