Lymph node biopsy

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The lymph nodes biopsy is a test in which the lymph nodes or pieces of lymph nodes are examined under a microscope (see: biopsy).

The lymphatic system consists of several lymph nodes connected by the lymph vessels. Nodes produce white blood cells (lymphocytes) that fight infection. When there is infection, the lymph nodes swell, produce more white blood cells, and try to trap the organism that causes the infection. Lymph nodes also try to trap cancer cells.

Video Lymph node biopsy

Indication

This test is used to help determine the cause of enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands or lymphadenitis). It can also determine whether the tumors in the lymph nodes are cancerous or non-cancerous. Enlarged lymph nodes can be caused by a number of conditions, ranging from very mild infections to serious malignancies. Benign conditions can often be distinguished from cancer processes and infections by microscopic examination. The pathologist may also perform additional tests on lymph node tissue to assist in making the diagnosis.

Some conditions where abnormal values ​​are obtained are:

• Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Sarcoidosis
• cervical lymphadenitis tuberculosis (skrofula)

Lymph node biopsy can be performed to evaluate the spread of cancer. See Lymphadenectomy # With_sentinel_node_biopsy.

However, a Sentinel lymph node biopsy to evaluate early, thin melanoma has not been shown to improve survival, and for this reason, should not be done. Patients with in situ melanoma, T1a melanoma or T1b melanoma <= 0.5 mm have a low risk of spreading cancer to the lymph nodes and a high 5-year survival rate, so this type of biopsy is not necessary.

Maps Lymph node biopsy

Procedures

This test is performed in the operating room at the hospital, or in an outpatient surgery facility. There are two ways a sample can be obtained:

• Needle Biopsy
• Open (excision) biopsy

Needle Biopsy

A needle biopsy involves inserting a needle into a knot to get a sample.

The patient is lying on the examination table; biopsy site cleaned; and local anesthesia is injected. The biopsy needle is then inserted into the node. Samples removed, pressure applied to site to stop bleeding, and bandages applied.

Open biopsy

An open biopsy consists of surgery that removes all or part of a node.

The patient lies on the examination table and is given a sedative. The skin above the biopsy site is cleaned, and local anesthesia is injected (sometimes, given general anesthesia). A small incision is made, and the lymph node or part of the knot is removed. The incision is then covered with stitches and bandaged.

The sample is then sent to pathology.

With this test there is a small chance of infection or bleeding. In addition, there is a moderate risk of nerve injury, local paralysis, or numbness when the biopsy is performed on the lymph nodes that are close to the nerve.

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References

src: www.breastendocrinebrisbane.com.au

External links

• Cancer Management Handbook: Lymph node biopsy

Source of the article : Wikipedia