LYMPH NODE BIOPSY
Dr. Shilpi Sharma Best Lymph node biopsy Doctor in Gurgaon . A lymph node biopsy is a medical procedure that involves the examination of a sample of lymph node tissue. It’s typically performed to identify whether a lymph node is affected by a disease, such as cancer, , or an immune disorder. Lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs of the immune system, are located throughout the body and filter lymphatic fluid, capturing harmful entities like bacteria, viruses, or cancer cells.
The procedure can be performed in several ways depending on the situation and the location of the lymph nodes:
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB): This involves using a thin needle to remove a small sample of cells from the lymph node. It’s often the first test done if a doctor thinks lymphoma (a type of cancer that starts in lymph nodes) might be the reason for a swollen lymph node.
Core needle biopsy: This uses a larger needle to remove a small cylinder of tissue from the lymph node. It’s often used when FNAB results are unclear or more tissue is needed for a diagnosis.
Excisional or incisional biopsy: In an excisional biopsy, the entire lymph node is removed. In an incisional biopsy, only part of the lymph node or abnormal growth is taken out. These methods are typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the location of the node.
After the biopsy, the tissue or cells are sent to a laboratory, where a pathologist examines them under a microscope to determine the cause of the swelling and to identify any abnormal cells.
As with any procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, or nerve damage, but these are relatively rare. After the procedure, patients might experience some soreness or discomfort at the biopsy site, which usually resolves within a few days. The results from a lymph node biopsy can help physicians determine the most effective treatment approach for the underlying condition
