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Lymphatic system
Lymphatic system
Lymph node metastases, CT scan
Lymph node metastases, CT scan

Lymph node biopsy
Definition:

Lymph node biopsy is a test in which a sample of lymph tissue is removed for study.

The lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes connected by lymph vessels. The nodes produce white blood cells (lymphocytes) that fight infections. When an infection is present, the lymph nodes swell, produce more white blood cells, and attempt to trap the organisms that are causing the infection. The lymph nodes also try to trap cancer cells.

In this test, a lymph node or a piece of a lymph node is removed for examination under a microscope.
Alternative Names:
Biopsy - lymph nodes

How the test is performed:

The test is done in the hospital. There are two ways the sample may be obtained:

A needle biopsy involves inserting a needle into a node to obtain the sample. You will be asked to lie on the examination table. The biopsy site will be cleansed, and a local anesthetic will be injected. The biopsy needle is then inserted into the node. A sample is removed, pressure is applied to the site to stop the bleeding, and a bandage is applied.

An open biopsy consists of surgically removing all or part of a node. You will be asked to lie on the examination table. You may be given a sedative if you prefer. The skin over the biopsy site is cleansed, and a local anesthetic is injected (occasionally, a general anesthetic is given). A small incision is made and the lymph node or part of the node is removed. The incision is then closed with stitches and bandaged.

The sample is then sent to the laboratory for examination.
How to prepare for the test:

Adults:

Tell your health care provider about any drug allergies you have, which medications you are taking (including any supplements or herbal remedies), if you have bleeding problems, and if you are pregnant. You must sign a consent form.

Infants and children:

The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:
When the local anesthetic is injected, there will be a prick and a mild stinging. The biopsy site will be tender for a few days after the test.
Why the test is performed:
The test is used to help determine the cause of lymph node enlargement (swollen glands). It can also determine whether tumors in the lymph node are cancerous or noncancerous.
Normal Values:
Enlarged lymph nodes may be caused by a number of reasons, ranging from very mild infections to serious malignancies. Benign conditions can often be distinguished from cancerous and infectious processes by microscopic examination. The pathologist may also perform additional tests on the lymph node tissue to assist in making a diagnosis.
What abnormal results mean:

The examination of the tissue may show cancerous or noncancerous tumors, or the presence of infection.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks are:
There is a small chance of infection or bleeding. Additionally, there is a moderate risk of nerve injury and local paralysis or numbness when the biopsy is on a lymph node close to nerves.
Review Date: 11/8/2002
Reviewed By: Michael C. Milone, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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