Comparison of immunohistochemistry with conventional histopathology for evaluation of lymphnodes

Abstract

Background: Lymph node specimens are routinely used for the evaluation of lymphadenopathies. Tuberculosis and reactive lymphadenitis are the major causes of lymphadenopathy in developing countries. A panel for Immunohistochemistry is decided based on differential diagnosis through histopathology. Immunohistochemistry helps in the sub typing of the lymphomas and metastatic lesions. Materials and Methods: The present study was carried out on 50 patients. Types of samples include lymph node specimens received in histopathology section of the pathology department. The cases were diagnosed based on light microscopy and confirmed by Immunohistochemistry. Aims and Objectives:  To determine the histopathological spectrum of lymphadenopathy by evaluation of the specimen.  To study the incidence of lymph node lesions with respect to age and sex.  To use Immunohistochemistry for subtyping of various neoplastic lesions. Results: A total of 50 lymph node specimens were studied. Age distribution varied from 7 to 80 years with female preponderance. Non – Neoplastic lesions were common comprising of 27 cases (54%) while neoplastic lesions were 23 (46%). Among non neoplastic lesions reactive lymphadenitis (26%) was common followed by tuberculous lymphadenitis (20%). In neoplastic lesions, metastatic diseases (20%) predominated. Conclusion: Reactive lymphadenitis and tuberculosis are the most common diagnosis in lymph node specimens. Histopathology with IHC on lymph node specimens are diagnostic and reliable investigations to differentiate non-neoplastic lesions from neoplastic lesions, and further classify the disease in both cases.