Guided Mediastinal Lymph Node Biopsy (Biopsy of Lymph Nodes in the Mediastinum)
This test involves removing a small sample of tissue from lymph nodes in the chest area (mediastinum) for examination under a microscope. It helps diagnose conditions like infections, cancers, or inflammatory diseases.
["A biopsy of your chest lymph nodes may be needed to investigate unexplained symptoms or suspected disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87029-5
- Short code
- Guided Mediastinum Bx
- Synonyms
- 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
- imaging-modality
- 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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, chest pain, or swelling in the neck, arms, or face. It could also be done if imaging tests (like a PET scan or CT scan) suggest abnormal lymph nodes in your chest.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
You’ll likely need to fast for a few hours before the procedure, and your doctor may instruct you to stop certain medications. You’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the biopsy will occur, and you may feel some discomfort during the procedure but shouldn’t experience significant pain afterward.
During the Procedure
A healthcare professional will insert a thin needle through your skin into the lymph node. A small amount of tissue will be collected and sent to a lab for microscopic examination. This process usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes and is done in a hospital or clinic setting.
After the Procedure
You may experience mild bruising, swelling, or discomfort at the biopsy site. You’ll need to rest for a short time afterward and avoid strenuous activities for a day or two. Follow your doctor’s instructions for monitoring any signs of infection or complications.
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.
This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as lymphoma, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, or metastatic cancer. By examining the tissue, doctors can determine the presence of abnormal cells, infections, or inflammation, guiding treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes.
Short name
Mediastinal Lymph Node Biopsy
Frequently asked questions
What does a guided mediastinal lymph node biopsy involve?
How long does it take to get results from this biopsy?
Can I eat or drink before the biopsy?
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