“Is lymph node biopsy painful?”

This somewhat depends on where the lymph node to be biopsied is located in the body. Also depends on the method of biopsy (biopsy needle or opening the skin and superficial tissues to get the lymph node). The most easily accessible ones are in the groin, neck and arm pits. I would discuss this with the healthcare provider doing the procedure. They may be able to provide some local anesthetic (as they do when you get skin stitches) and/or some general sedative to help. In general, this is likely to be a bit more painful than a blood test, but not much more. You also may have some pain and tenderness after the procedure, again depending on how the biopsy is done. Again, ask your healthcare provider. David Gordon "To improve the health of the communities we serve. That is why we are here!" "What I want to know now is what we gonna do?" (B.B. King) David Gordon, M.D. Professor of Pathology (VERY Active Emeritus!) and Director of Cardiovascular Pathology Director of Faculty Programs, Office for Health Equity and Inclusion for the University of Michigan Health System University of Michigan Medical School/Michigan Medicine North Campus Research Center (NCRC) Bldg. 36, Rm. 1361-14 2800 Plymouth Road Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2800 Tel. 734-615-3638 Pager: #3316

It depends on where the node is but usually not really. A little soreness only.

Lymph node biopsy is a simple procedure that takes 20-30mins. It matters what part of the body you are referring to. Yes there can be pain after because there are usually nerves in the area that get irritated. Usually the pain last for 1-2 weeks, sometimes 1-2 months. Sincerely, Darren Sachs, D.O.