Lymph Node Biopsy
(Biopsy, Lymph Node)
by Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN
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 all or part of a lymph node so it can be further examined.
Reasons for Procedure
This biopsy is done to find out why a node is swollen. Swelling may be caused by infection, cancer, or another disease such as sarcoidosis.
Common areas for biopsy include:
Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Leading up to your procedure, you will need to:
Description of the Procedure
Lymph nodes samples can be obtained by:
There are 2 types of needle biopsies:
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.
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 if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
American Cancer Society
National Cancer Institute
Canadian Cancer Society
Cancer Care Ontario
Sentinel lymph node biopsy. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/staging/sentinel-node-biopsy-fact-sheet. Updated August 11, 2011. Accessed April 17, 2018.
Testing biopsy and cytology specimens for cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/testing-biopsy-and-cytology-specimens-for-cancer.html. Accessed April 17, 2018.
Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Marcie L. Sidman, MD
Last Updated: 3/18/2013
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