(Biopsy Lymph Nodes)
Definition
Definition
Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. They are part of the body’s immune system. These nodes help fight infection by producing special white blood cells. They also work by trapping bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. Normally, lymph nodes cannot be felt unless they are swollen. Infection, usually by a virus, is the most common cause of lymph node swelling. Other causes include bacterial infection and cancer.
With this type of biopsy, the doctor removes and examines all or part of a lymph node.
Reasons for Procedure
Reasons for Procedure
This biopsy is done to find out why a node is swollen. It can also be done to see if there are cancer cells in the lymph node.
Common areas for biopsy include:
- Groin
- Armpit
- Neck
- Under the jaw and chin
- Behind the ears
Possible Complications
Possible Complications
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a lymph node biopsy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Swelling
- Nerve damage, including numbness at the biopsy site
What to Expect
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Leading up to your procedure, you will need to:
-
Talk to your doctor about your medical history, including:
- Any allergies that you have
- Any medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbs and supplements. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.
- Arrange for a ride home from the care center.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight if you will have general anesthesia.
Anesthesia
- Local anesthesia—just the area that is being operated on is numbed; given as an injection and may also be given with a sedative
- General anesthesia is used for open biopsies—blocks pain and keeps you asleep through the surgery; given through an IV in your hand or arm
Description of the Procedure
Lymph nodes samples can be obtained by:
- Needle biopsy
- Open biopsy
Needle Biopsy
There are 2 types of needle biopsies:
- Fine needle biopsy —A thin, hollow needle is used to obtain tissue samples.
- Core needle biopsy—A larger needle is used to cut out a piece of tissue.
An ultrasound or CT scan may be used to help locate the biopsy site.
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Open Biopsy
An open biopsy means removing the lymph nodes through an incision. A cut will be made in the skin. All or part of a lymph node will be removed. After removal, the incision will be closed with stitches and bandaged.
Immediately After Procedure
The sample will be sent to the lab for examination.
How Long Will It Take?
About 30-60 minutes—longer if an ultrasound or CT scan is used.
How Much Will It Hurt?
You will have some pain and tenderness after the biopsy is taken. Your doctor may give you pain medication.
Post-procedure Care
Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. Results will be ready in about a week. Your doctor will tell you if further treatment is needed.
Call Your Doctor
Call Your Doctor
After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the incision site
- New or worsening symptoms
In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES:
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
References:
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/therapy/sentinel-node-biopsy
Updated August 11, 2011. Accessed February 24, 2015.
Testing biopsy and cytology specimens for cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at:
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ped/content/ped_2_3x_testing_biopsy_and_cytology_specimens_for_cancer.asp?sitearea=ped
Accessed February 24, 2015
Last Updated: 3/18/2013