Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy and molecular imaging in pediatric melanoma

Although melanoma in children is uncommon his incidence is increasing by a mean of 2% per year. Continuous advancements in the field of molecular imaging and technological development have enabled to convert Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) in the most effective technique for obtaining an accurate lymph node staging with high efficiency to diagnose metastasis. Pediatric age implies greater technical difficulties being forced to develop specific protocols. New hybrid imaging modalities allow us to obtain an exquisite anatomical delineation of the findings leading to a carefully surgery planning and lower morbidity.