Lymph Node Biopsy (Manual Examination of Lymphocyte Count or Composition)

When Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent swelling, unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue that suggest an issue with your lymph nodes. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like lymphoma, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

What Happens During the Test?

A small sample of lymph node tissue is collected through a biopsy (often under local anesthesia). The sample is then sent to a lab for manual microscopic examination to identify cell types and count lymphocytes or other cells. This process does not require fasting or special preparation beyond standard biopsy precautions.

What Does the Test Result Mean?

Results are interpreted by a pathologist, who examines the tissue under a microscope to identify abnormal cell patterns, inflammation, or other signs of disease. While specific ranges aren’t provided for manual cell counts, deviations from expected patterns may indicate conditions like lymphoma, infections, or immune disorders.

Common Conditions Evaluated

This test helps diagnose conditions such as lymphoma (cancer of the immune system), chronic infections (e.g., HIV, tuberculosis), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), or reactive lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes due to infection or inflammation).