Reactive lymph nodes are usually from some infection or inflammation and biopsy will likely not be helpful. Id say go for the PET first. The lung nodule does not seem worrisome. PET once again may be helpful to see if it is metabolically active
Chest/Neck CT/PET in preparation for lymph node biopsy for neurological/rheumatologic(?) symptoms, also showed lung nodule?Hello everyone! I just had a chest CT and neck CT with contrast to evaluate lymphadenopathy of the neck as well as potential lymph node activity of the chest, and to move towards a lymph node biopsy.This is what was found so far (also had an ER ultrasound showing multiple mildly enlarged lymph nodes in parotid, submandibular, levels 1 and 2 no fatty hilum)-Multiple nonenlarged reactive appearing cervical chain lymph nodes bilaterally. Asymmetric 0.9 cm left level 5 and 4/5 nodes, with preservation of the fatty hilum, likely reactive. Subcentimeter right retropharyngeal node similar to the recent cervical spine MR, with an elongated reactive appearance.My ENT, advised by the rheumatologist I am seeing, was somewhat hesitant on doing the biopsy before having a PET scan done because she stated a biopsy would interfere with a PET/CT for 12 weeks afterwards. The PET scan was recommended by the rheumatologist, as we do not have solid leads for the issues I am having and per his words can collect more sensitive data. I have symptoms progressing by the day, and would like to go ahead with the biopsy and forgo the PET scan also because of the high radiation dose. My questions are, does a biopsy really impact PET results for so long, and would it make sense to perform? Can I request the biopsy first instead? Also, would an excisional biopsy really be needed over a core needle biopsy?The CT also found a 4 mm right lower lobe nodule adjacent to pleura image versus subpleural atelectasis. Should i be concerned about this nodule or its location, and could it represent a rheumatologic disease process?I appreciate any advice! I am a mystery case to all the doctors I have seen and feel completely utterly hopeless.28F, 57, 172 lbs, Asian, No drug use or smoking of any kind, Current Medications include Levothyroxine, estrogen, and progesteronePrimary Issue- Multi system wide involvement including neurological, dermatologic, possible rheumatologist, endocrinologic- Severe neurological presentation of symptoms beginning as constant left-sided facial pain, progressing to tingling and cold, then constant numbness and deadness of sensation in peri orbital area, decreased corneal reflex, whole cheek, down to jaw, and through lips, combined with massive headaches in occipital temple and behind the eye, feels like face is falling off face and sagging. Loss of muscle in face and body as well as muscle twitching/pulsing in top and bottom eyelids (right and left) constant muscle twitching/aches/pain in random muscles throughout body. Recently spread of pain in parotid, submandibular, occipital, ear canal, left neck, supraclavicular areas with associated mildly enlarged and reactive lymph nodes, mostly on left but also bilaterally. Very recently tightness, compression, and loss of sensation in left front of foot and back of left calf which is still present.Many other non-neurological symptoms, have seen 60+ doctors.Duration: 2 years of worsening symptoms.