Biopsy of parotid masses: Review of current techniques

Figure 1 Longitudinal sonogram through left parotid gland (P) superficial lobe, mandible (M). Demonstrates an atypical node, callipers-eccentric hilum displaced and heterogeneous cortex. LT PAR: Left Parotid.

Figure 2 Biopsy undertaken with spring loaded biopsy automated device, 22 mm throw, 18G needle (N). Note needle deployed to traverse but not exit the lesion. LT PAR: Left Parotid.

Figure 3 Image of biopsy specimen taken in Figure 2. 18G-needle in biopsy tray with overlying needle overlying sheath retracted.

Figure 4 Low power image, H and E stain, of biopsy samples obtained in this case to give an idea of what material is available to the pathologist for reporting and immunohistochemistry - final diagnosis in this case was B cell non-hodgkins Lymphoma.