Handling of Lymph Node Biopsy Requests from Other Hospital Departments - Based on Experience of 52 Cases

Abstract

 Introduction: Although plastic surgeons often receive requests for lymph node biopsy from other departments, they are rarely involved in post-biopsy treatment. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes and prognoses of patients who underwent lymph node biopsy at our institution.
 Methods: Fifty-two lymph node biopsy cases performed at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, between November 2018 and August 2021 were included.
 Results: The most frequent histopathological diagnosis was malignant lymphoma (28 of 52 cases), and 14 of 52 cases resulted in death. The median (range) amount of time from the day of biopsy to death was 30 (6-287) days.
 Discussion/Conclusion: Patients who undergo lymph node biopsy often have a poor prognosis, highlighting the importance of reaching a definitive diagnosis at an early stage for subsequent treatment and ensuring the emotional well-being of the patient and their family. Lymph node biopsy should be performed as early as possible, after discussing the site of collection and indications with the referring department.