Biopsy of a lymph node under the arm

The sample may be taken with a needle or through a small incision. The approach depends on the node's position, how much tissue is needed, and what the clinical team is trying to clarify.

A pathologist examines the sample for its cell pattern and signs of inflammation, infection, lymphoma, or cancer cells that may have travelled from another site. An abnormal scan or enlarged node does not by itself establish a cancer diagnosis.

Additional laboratory methods, including special stains, may help classify the cells. A result can guide whether further imaging, another sample, monitoring, or treatment planning is appropriate.

Before the procedure, give the team a complete list of medicines and supplements, and mention bleeding problems, allergies, pregnancy, or previous reactions to anaesthetic. Follow the specific instructions about eating, drinking, and medicines; do not stop a prescribed blood thinner without direction from its prescriber.

Afterwards, keep the dressing and wound as instructed, limit movements that pull on the underarm, and use only the recommended pain relief. Mild tenderness, bruising, or a small amount of swelling can occur. Ask when you may shower, exercise, drive, and return to work.

Contact the treating team promptly if bleeding continues despite firm pressure, pain or swelling is getting worse, the wound becomes increasingly red or warm, fluid or pus drains from it, or you develop a fever.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, rapidly expanding swelling, fainting, or a severe allergic-type reaction. New marked swelling of the arm or hand on the biopsy side also warrants prompt assessment.

Ask which biopsy method is planned, whether imaging will guide the sample, what anaesthetic will be used, and how to manage your regular medicines. It is also useful to ask who will discuss the pathology report, what an unclear sample would mean, and whether special testing may be performed on the tissue.