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

BACKGROUND: Excisional 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.

METHODS: All 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.

RESULTS: Seventy-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.

CONCLUSIONS: IGCNB 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.