Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of the lymph nodes

You may have this test to see if there are any cancer cells in the lymph nodes.

The doctor passes a fine needle into the lymph node and withdraws (aspirates) some cells into a syringe. This might feel a little uncomfortable, but it’s very quick. You might have an ultrasound scan at the same time to help guide the needle.

After the test, a doctor examines the sample under a microscope to check for cancer cells.