JAMA Netw Open
Do corticosteroids before biopsy compromise DLBCL diagnosis?
In a retrospective case series of 320 adults with newly diagnosed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, 15% received corticosteroids within 30 days before biopsy. Diagnostic yield was similar between steroid and nonsteroid groups (83% vs. 81%; prevalence ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.89–1.18). Steroid dose, duration, and withdrawal period weren't associated with biopsy success or treatment delays. Biopsy technique—especially avoiding fine needle aspiration—was the strongest predictor of diagnostic yield.
Clinical takeaway: Steroids for symptom control before biopsy appear safe and don't reduce diagnostic accuracy; prioritize excisional or incisional biopsy for best results.
Source:
Madireddy S, et al. (2025, December 1). JAMA Netw Open. Prebiopsy Steroids and Diagnostic Yield in Patients With Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41379445/