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iCliniq / Answers / Hematology / Enlarged Lymph Node / Is FNB or biopsy needed to check lymph node enlargement?

Q. Do I need to get FNB or biopsy to check lymph node enlargement?

Answered by
Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Jul 29, 2016 and last reviewed on: Jun 11, 2020

Hi doctor,

I am a 32 year old male. My height is 6 feet and weight is 145 lbs. I am facing a significant unexplained weight loss of more than 45 lbs in four months. My normal weight since high school is 185 to 180 lbs. I am having episodes of significant and frequent drenching night sweats. Also, I have chronic persistent fatigue and occasional non-specific itching. I have a family history of lymphoma with my paternal uncle and maternal cousin. My ultrasound of lymph nodes has two different impressions. The first one was clear bilateral LAD suspicion of neoplastic etiology seen at level 4 and 5. The second opinion was clearly reactive bilateral nodes seen at level 2 and 5. In your opinion, what would be the appropriate course of action? Either FNB or excisional biopsy due to the symptoms and history? Also, if you can interpret films, then I would appreciate your additional opinion. From a differential diagnosis standpoint, what is at the top?

Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda

Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda

Geriatrics Hematology Pathology
#

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query and attached images (attachment removed to protect patient identity), my opinion is as follows:

  • In view of the clinical symptoms, images could be more of neoplastic etiology. Clearly, with the family history and prominent nodes along with classical history of night sweats, further evaluation is definitely necessary.
  • FNB (fine needle biopsy) is usually an initial test and the final confirmation is by biopsy. FNB has its limitations, however, to avoid any surgery; FNB of two lymph nodes can be done. If suspicious or positive, then can go for a biopsy, which will require further studies for characterization.
  • FNB is usually my initial choice; however, biopsy will be necessary for confirmation. However, evaluation of nodes is compulsory looking at radiological findings, family history and symptoms.
  • CBC (complete blood count), being normal indicates that there is no leukemia or lymphoma spill over into peripheral blood. Lymph node evaluation is necessary.
Investigations to be done:

FNB.

Regarding follow up:

For further information consult a hematologist online.---> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/hematologist

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Thank you doctor,

I will forward this to my hematologist. I also reviewed my blood laboratory reports and realized that my neutrophil count was slightly elevated as well my albumin, alkaline phosphate and LDH. I am not sure if these are clinically relevant. Also, I have noticed a very odd symptom. When I have a glass of wine or beer with dinner the lymph nodes get tender and painful. Otherwise, I do not notice them. I am not sure whether it is a reaction to alcohol.

Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda

Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda

Geriatrics Hematology Pathology
#

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

  • Yes, in relation to alcohol use, in a few patients with lymphoma, lymph nodes do become tender. However, the exact cause of it is not identified.
  • Mild elevation of alkaline phosphatase, LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) and albumin are not to be worried about.
  • Increased neutrophil, probably secondary to mild bacterial infection could be causing mild abnormal liver function test values.
  • Get the tests done. Hope, it is only reactive lymph nodes and not lymphoma. Do get back after tests for anything of concern.

For further doubts consult a hematologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/hematologist

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