The diagnostic value of percutaneus liver biopsy in patients with non Hodgkin's lymphoma - a preliminary report.

Since the presence of the pathological liver process definitely changes the approach in determining clinical staging and therapy of patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the authors carried out percutaneous liver biopsies in 33 untreated patients with this diseases. The liver biopsies were performed with Menghini's needle and the material was histologically and cytologically examined. Liver involvement was found in 9 (27%) patients. Based on the analyzed biopsies, the authors concluded that percutaneous liver biopsies represent a significant diagnostic approach in clinical staging and therapy of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The authors further compared the bioptical findings with physical examinations, biochemical blood tests and liver scintigraphy.