Uses and limitations of small-volume biopsies for the diagnosis of lymphoma

Although surgical biopsy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of lymphoma, small-volume biopsies including fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy are increasingly being used as a first line diagnostic tool. Small-volume biopsies are safe, rapid and cost effective; however, diagnostic utility varies by lymphoma subtype. It is important for pathologists and clinicians to recognize both the strengths and limitations of such biopsies. Although surgical biopsy (SB) is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of lymphoma, many factors must be considered when deciding on whether to obtain a SB or a small biopsy such as fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy in patients with lymphadenopathy. There is increased reliance on core needle biopsy and fine-needle aspiration for the diagnosis of lymphoma. It is important to recognize the strengths and limitations of these small-volume biopsies.image