[Lymph node cytology]

Abstract

The cytological preparation of a lymph node is a relatively simple technique. A fine needle aspirate is smeared as a blood sample and stained with a hematological method, Wright-stain or Diff-Quik. The microscopical examination can be completed in a few minutes. The cytology of a lymph node is a valuable diagnostical step for the classification of a lymphadenopathy. Reactive hyperplasia, forms of lymphadenitis, primary or metastatic neoplasias, microorganisms and parasites can be diagnosed.