Impact of National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines on Case Selection and Outcomes for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Thin Melanoma.

BACKGROUND: In 2010, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommended sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for thin melanomas =1. In 2016, the criteria were changed to Breslow depth >0.75 mm and MR >=1. OBJECTIVE: To compare the impact of 2010 and 2016 NCCN guidelines on SLNB case selection and thin melanoma outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten-year retrospective cohort of primary thin melanomas at an academic hospital was retroactively stratified for SLNB eligibility using the 2010 and 2016 NCCN guidelines. Nodal recurrence-free survival (NRFS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared. RESULTS: Eight hundred two patients with 859 tumors and median follow-up of 79 months were included. Eleven percent fewer tumors qualified for SLNB under 2016 versus 2010 NCCN guidelines (19% vs 8%, p

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