Lymph node and soft tissue ultrasound
lymph node ultrasound · lump ultrasound · soft tissue ultrasound
The doctor uses ultrasound to look at the lymph nodes, the skin, and the tissue under the skin. It is safe and uses no radiation.
When a lymph node is swollen, there is a lump or hard spot under the skin, after an injury, or to keep watch on a growth.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 20 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Preparation. No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink.
- Clothing. Wear clothes that make it easy to uncover the area: your neck, armpits, or groin.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past ultrasound reports, if you have them
- A tissue or towel to wipe off the gel
How it goes
- You lie down or sit and uncover the area
- The doctor puts on cool gel
- The probe is moved over the skin above the node or lump
- Sometimes the same area on the other side is checked for comparison
What you'll feel
- The gel is cool
- The probe presses a little. It does not hurt
Afterwards
- The gel is wiped off, and you can go back to your usual day right away
- You usually get the report right away
- Sometimes the doctor advises a repeat scan later, or a biopsy. This means taking a few cells with a thin needle
Common questions
Is a swollen lymph node dangerous?
Most often, nodes swell because of a cold or inflammation, and they shrink on their own. Ultrasound helps the doctor decide if anything else is needed.
Do I need to prepare for a lymph node ultrasound?
No. You can eat and drink as usual.