Lymph node biopsy in infants and children. A new bedside method.

134 needle biopsies of lymph nodes were carried out in 125 children using the Menghini needle. Biopsy was successful in 84% of cases. The method is practicable at the bedside and in the out-patient department. There were no significant complications. Histopathological findings were consistent with the diagnosis of tuberculosis in about 50% of the biopsies. In others chronic lymphadenitis, acute pyogenic lymphadenitis, and Hodgkin's disease were diagnosed. This is a simple, safe, quick, and minimally traumatic diagnostic method in lymphadenopathies, and is advocated for routine use before submitting the patient for surgical excision of a gland.