Internal mammary lymphoscintigraphy with /sup 99m/Tc microcolloids. Clinical significance in the management of breast cancer

Clinical and histological assessment of auxilary lymph nodes is necessary for the staging and management of breast cancer. The involvement of internal mammary lymph nodes is also of critical importance in determining the prognosis, but routine surgical excision of these nodes is rarely performed during radical or conservative mastectomy. Internal mammary lymphoscintigraphy (IML) may be considered a simple, non-invasive technique for examining the internal mammary lymphatics. Trials on the prognostic implications of IML provide clear evidence that this technique is an effective complement to axillary node status in patients with breast cancer. Moreover, modifications in radiation therapy fields to optimize the treatment of internal mammary lymph nodes must be made after IML indications. This report reviews the experience with IML at Padua General Hospital so as to establish its contribution to breast cancer management