Ultrasonography is a very good, effective and easily accessible diagnostic method that allows to assess the nature of the lymph nodes. In this examination, we can evaluate the submandibular, occipital, cervical, supraclavicular, subclavian, axillary, inguinal lymph nodes as well as retroperitoneal lymph nodes, i.e. the space below the diaphragm, along the aorta, forward from the spine. During the examination, the doctor determines the size, structure and shape as well as - thanks to the Doppler technique, the blood flow in the lymph node. Thanks to this anatomical and functional assessment, the nature of the lymph nodes (cancerous or reactive) can be determined with great efficiency. It should be remembered that the lymph nodes become enlarged in the course of bacterial, viral and parasitic infections as well as in neoplastic diseases.
Indications for ultrasound examination of lymph nodes
Enlargement of the nodes or their soreness.
The location of individual lymph node stations may direct further diagnostics to specific areas of the body or organs that cause lymph node enlargement.
In the case of a suspicious focal change within the thyroid gland, glands or abnormally rebuilt lymph nodes under ultrasound guidance, a fine-needle biopsy of the pathological structure may be performed.
Preparation for ultrasound examination
The ultrasound examination does not require any special preparations, however, it is recommended to shave the beard off, as the hair will make it difficult or even impossible to properly visualize the structures of the neck. If possible, please provide previous results of tests on the structures of the neck (ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, biopsy), especially photographic documentation - if such tests have already been performed, and hospital discharge after possible breast surgery. This procedure allows for a precise comparison of the size and nature of the previously described changes and often allows you to avoid additional, unnecessary tests.
The course of ultrasound examination
The test is performed lying down with your arms along the body. The doctor, after collecting an interview, puts a thin layer of gel on the surface of the ultrasound head and, moving the probe over the skin surface, examines and assesses individual structures of the neck on the monitor (assessing possible pathological changes). The image visible on the monitor screen can be recorded at any time on heat-sensitive paper or on USB devices).
The result of the ultrasound examination is a description of the imaged structures, a description of any pathologies found, and the diagnosis with possible recommendations. If any pathology is found, the examination result is accompanied by a photo documentation of the abnormalities shown.
