How long should you wait before considering having a lymph node biopsied?

Lymph node biopsy: Most physician would prescribe an antibiotic and wait a couple of weeks before suggesting an FNA(fine needle aspirate). If the node is firm and feels fixed to the underlying tissue a biopsy would be wise. If its swollen and painful and has an obvious cause (such as a local skin infection), waiting while antibiotics have a chance to cool things down is fine. Speak with your doctor.

Lymph node: There is no fixed time period to consider a biopsy of a large lymph node. It depends on the preliminary diagnosis, such as if large lymph node is firm to hard, immoveable (adherent), biopsy is considered in the first visit. On the other side if you have symptoms like fever, cough, itching etc lymph nodes may be considered reactive in nature and may subside after treatment of underlying condition.