Identify suspicious lymph nodes
Ultrasound can detect nodal enlargement, round shape, loss of fatty hilum, and abnormal vascularity – features that suggest malignancy and guide biopsy.
Lymph node evaluation is a focused ultrasound examination that assesses the size, shape, morphology, and vascularity of lymph nodes in various regions – including the neck (cervical), armpit (axillary), groin (inguinal), and abdomen. Lymph nodes are small, bean‑shaped organs that play a vital role in the immune system, filtering lymph fluid and trapping pathogens or abnormal cells. Enlargement (lymphadenopathy) can occur due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies.
Ultrasound is the first‑line imaging test for evaluating palpable lymph nodes or when lymphadenopathy is suspected. It can differentiate between benign reactive nodes (which are often small, oval, with a preserved fatty hilum) and suspicious nodes (which may be round, enlarged, with cortical thickening or loss of hilum). Doppler assessment can further evaluate vascularity patterns, helping to guide biopsy decisions.
At Amytri, our lymph node evaluations are performed by experienced consultant radiologists using state‑of‑the‑art high‑frequency linear transducers. We systematically assess all palpable or visible nodes, document their characteristics, and provide a detailed report with clinical correlation. Our findings help your GP, oncologist, or surgeon make informed decisions about further investigation, surveillance, or biopsy.
Lymph node enlargement is a common finding – but it can be a sign of serious disease. Ultrasound provides a safe, accurate assessment to guide diagnosis and management.
Ultrasound can detect nodal enlargement, round shape, loss of fatty hilum, and abnormal vascularity – features that suggest malignancy and guide biopsy.
Benign nodes are usually small, oval, with a central fatty hilum and hilar vascularity. Suspicious nodes are round, large, with cortical thickening, loss of hilum, and peripheral vascularity.
For patients with lymphoma or known lymphadenopathy, serial ultrasound monitors size and morphology – guiding treatment decisions and assessing response.
We perform a systematic examination of all accessible lymph node regions, using high‑frequency transducers and colour Doppler for optimal characterisation.
We evaluate the neck for enlarged nodes – including submandibular, submental, jugulodigastric, and supraclavicular nodes. We assess for features suggestive of infection, lymphoma, or metastatic cancer.
We assess the axilla for lymphadenopathy – particularly relevant in breast cancer staging, infections, or systemic conditions.
We evaluate the groin for enlarged nodes – common in lower limb infections, sexually transmitted infections, or lymphoma.
If accessible, we can evaluate para‑aortic, mesenteric, and pelvic nodes using a combination of transabdominal and, if needed, transrectal/transvaginal approaches.
For each node, we document: size (long and short axes, S/L ratio), shape, presence of fatty hilum, cortical thickness, echogenicity, and vascularity (hilar vs. peripheral).
If a suspicious node is identified, we can mark the optimal site and guide ultrasound‑guided fine‑needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy for histological diagnosis.
No special preparation is required. You can eat, drink, and take medications as usual. Wear loose‑fitting clothing that allows access to the area(s) being examined – you may be asked to change into a gown.
You lie comfortably, exposing the area of concern. The radiologist applies gel and uses a high‑frequency linear transducer to scan the lymph node region. If multiple sites are involved, each is assessed separately. Colour Doppler is used to evaluate vascularity. The scan takes 20‑30 minutes and is painless.
The radiologist reviews the images, measures nodes, assesses morphology and vascularity, and classifies each node as benign, suspicious, or indeterminate. A comprehensive report is prepared for your referring doctor.
We discuss the findings with you (where appropriate) and recommend further steps – which may include surveillance, biopsy, or specialist referral (haematology, oncology, infectious diseases).
It is a key investigation for any patient with palpable lymph nodes, unexplained fever, night sweats, or known cancer.
Any visible or palpable lymph node swelling should be evaluated – ultrasound can characterise it and guide management.
B‑symptoms may indicate systemic disease – ultrasound can identify nodal enlargement as a clue.
In cancer patients, nodal assessment is essential for staging, treatment planning, and surveillance for recurrence.
Infections (e.g., tuberculosis, cat scratch disease, toxoplasmosis) can cause reactive lymphadenopathy – ultrasound can help differentiate.
Patients with haematological malignancies require regular nodal assessment to monitor disease activity and treatment response.
If you have a known enlarged node, serial ultrasound monitors for resolution or progression.
Dr. Abhishek has extensive experience in lymph node ultrasound, with a special focus on distinguishing benign from malignant nodes and guiding biopsy. He is skilled in assessing nodal morphology, vascularity, and using Doppler to improve diagnostic accuracy – providing critical information for oncologists and surgeons.
Lymph node evaluation can be an anxious experience – having your partner with you provides support and shared understanding.
We welcome partners to attend the ultrasound. We explain what we are seeing, show you the images on screen, and discuss the findings. Your partner's presence can be helpful for understanding the results and planning next steps together.
It is a focused ultrasound examination that assesses lymph nodes in various regions – measuring size, shape, morphology, and vascularity to differentiate benign conditions from malignancy.
No special preparation is required. You can eat and drink normally. Wear loose‑fitting clothing that allows access to the area(s) being examined.
No, the scan is painless. You will feel mild pressure from the transducer, but it is not uncomfortable.
Ultrasound features – such as size, shape, presence of hilum, cortical thickness, and vascularity – can suggest benign or malignant status with high accuracy. However, biopsy is required for definitive diagnosis.
We will discuss the findings with you and your doctor. You may be referred for ultrasound‑guided biopsy (FNA or core biopsy) to obtain a tissue sample for histological analysis.
Yes, a referral from your doctor is recommended. They will use the results to guide your diagnosis and treatment – especially if further intervention (biopsy, imaging) is considered.
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