Lymphatic System Test & Procedures

allergy test

A diagnostic test used to identify whether a patient has an allergy; may be a skin test, intradermal test, or blood test.

apheresis

The process of separating blood into its component parts using a special machine, which is used to remove toxic substances or autoantibodies from the blood or to harvest (collect) blood cells.

biopsy

The removal of a small piece of living tissue for microscopic examination to determine the presence of disease.

bone marrow biopsy

Biopsy procedure in which a needle is placed into the bone marrow cavity, and a small amount of marrow is removed with a suction device.

complete blood count (CBC)

A routine test in which the total numbers of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets are determined.

computerized tomography (CT)

Process in which radiographic images of a specific section of the body are taken from multiple angles and then analyzed using a computer to identify injury or disease.

culture and sensitivity (C&S)

Test in which specimens are placed in a growth medium and observed for bacterial reproduction.

excisional biopsy

Surgical removal of an entire lesion or tumor.

immunoelectrophoresis

A test that measures immunoglobulins (the antibodies IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM) in the blood based on differences in electrical charge and reactivity.

incisional biopsy

Biopsy procedure in which an incision is made into living tissue, and a small piece is removed for microscopic examination.

laboratory (lab) test

Examination of body fluids or tissues from a patient to aid in diagnosing an illness, disease, or condition.

lymphoscintigraphy

Nuclear imaging method used to see the lymph vessels and nodes to detect abnormalities of the lymphatic system.

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

A noninvasive scanning test that involves use of an electromagnetic field and radio waves to visualize soft-tissue structures.

needle biopsy

Biopsy procedure in which a needle is used to remove a tissue sample for microscopic examination.

serology test

Any of a variety of tests used to screen a person’s blood for antigen-antibody reactions (signaling the presence of infection or disease).