Core needle biopsy is a safe and accurate initial diagnostic procedure for suspected lymphoma

BackgroundExcisional biopsy is currently recommended for the analysis of lymphadenopathy suspicious for lymphoma. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of image-guided core needle biopsy (IGCNB) for the diagnosis of lymphoma using a standard protocol for tissue acquisition and analysis.MethodsAll IGCNBs from 2008 to 2014 performed under the study protocol were included in analysis. Demographics, pathology results, additional studies, and follow-up information were recorded.ResultsSeventy-three IGCNBs were performed in 71 consecutive patients. Lymphoma was diagnosed in 37 patients (51%). All 37 patients (100%) were subtyped and treated based on IGCNB results. The remaining 36 IGCNBs in 34 patients did not have subsequent diagnosis of lymphoma in a mean follow-up of 15 months (range, 0 to 54 months). There were no complications.ConclusionsIGCNB performed under a standard protocol is effective and safe and should be considered as an initial diagnostic tool for the evaluation of lymphadenopathy suspicious for lymphoma.