Abstract
Aim
The aim of the study is to investigate the available evidence on the adverse effects of the use of isosulfan blue dye in sentinel lymph node mapping in breast cancer patients and to determine the treatment modalities for such complications.
Method
We carried out a thorough search of relevant articles in PubMed, Medline and Embase databases using the PRISMA guideline. Studies reporting on the adverse effects of isosulfan blue dye were included. Adverse effects were subdivided into 3 groups: Grade I, Grade II and Grade III. Weighted means were extracted and evaluated for procedure adverse reactions. A meta-analysis of proportion was conducted using random-effect models to analyse adverse effects rates.
Results
Grade I reactions were seen in 184 patients, Grade II in 4 patients and 50 patients developed Grade III reactions. The total rate of adverse reactions was 1.10% [CI: 0.96 to 1.26]; Grade I reaction rate was 0.82% [CI: 0.70 to 0.96], Grade II reaction rate was 0.02% [CI: 0.006 to 0.054] and Grade III reaction rate was 0.24% [CI = 0.18 to 0.32].
Conclusions
Currently, there is no level 1 evidence (meta-analysis) in the literature on the use of isosulfan blue dye in sentinel lymph node mapping in breast cancer patients. In our study, despite the low adverse reaction rate of isosulfan use, clinicians should still be aware of such complications following administration to ensure prompt treatment.