LYMPH-NODE BIOPSY IN INTRAVENOUS DRUG-ABUSERS AND PATIENTS WITH HIV-INFECTION

Lymph node biopsies were performed on 236 IV-drug abusers, some of who m were HIV-positive. The role of lymph node biopsy in such patients is controversial. The procedure had meaningful pathologic findings in 30 % of IV-drug abusers who were not HIV-positive and in 65% of those who were HIV-positive. These findings led to changes in treatment plans f or 20% of the non-HIV-positive drug abusers and for 45% of the HIV-pos itive patients. Lymph node biopsy or fine-needle aspiration cytology s hould be seriously considered for patients who are IV-drug abusers and who are HIV-positive.