Mediastinal Lymph Node Cytology (Guided Biopsy) - Cytologic Examination
This test involves collecting cells from lymph nodes in your chest (mediastinum) using a guided biopsy procedure, then examining them under a microscope to identify any abnormal cells.
["A guided biopsy helps doctors check for signs of cancer or infection in your chest lymph nodes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 37213-6
- Short code
- CT Guided Mediastinum Bx
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Mediastinum Bx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect a condition affecting your chest lymph nodes, such as lymphoma, metastatic cancer, or an infection like tuberculosis. Symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, or swelling in the neck or chest may prompt this investigation.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the area where the needle will be inserted. The procedure is usually quick and done in a doctor’s office or clinic. You may need to fast for a short time before the test, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
During the Test
A doctor or technician will guide a needle through your skin into a lymph node using imaging tools like ultrasound or CT scans. A small sample of cells will be collected and spread onto slides for microscopic examination. The process is minimally uncomfortable but may cause slight pain or pressure.
After the Test
You can usually resume normal activities immediately. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or fever. Follow your doctor’s advice about any restrictions or follow-up care.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Is this test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy