Metinel Node—The First Lymph Node Draining a Metastasis

May 30, 2008

Dahl K, Karlsson M, Marits P, et al. Metinel node–the first lymph node draining a metastasis–contains tumor-reactive lymphocytes. Ann Surg Oncol. 2008 May;15(5):1454-63. PMID: 18299934

Researchers in Sweden identify a new clinical entity.

"We located the first draining lymph node or nodes from metastases or local recurrences; we named them ‘metinel nodes.’ Lymphocytes from the metinel nodes proliferated, showed clonal expansion, and produced interferon gamma (via in vitro expansions on stimulation with tumor homogenate) and interleukins, all of which demonstrate the characteristics of tumor-reactive lymphocytes… We demonstrate that it is possible to locate the first lymph nodes draining subcutaneous, lymphatic, and visceral metastases, the so-called metinel nodes. Metinel node–derived lymphocytes may be used to treat disseminated solid cancer, and clinical trials should evaluate the effect of such treatment."

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