How is Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosed?
The most common early sign of Hodgkin lymphoma is a painless swelling in the lymph nodes of the neck, upper chest, interior of the chest, armpit, abdomen, or groin. Other symptoms include fever, sweating (especially at night), weight loss, and itching. While uncommon, some people may feel pain in the lymph nodes after drinking alcohol, a distinctive sign of Hodgkin lymphoma. In some cases the spleen is enlarged. One of the unique features of Hodgkin lymphoma is the way it spreads. It usually begins in the lymph nodes in one region of the body, and as the disease progresses, spreads predictably from one part of the lymph system to the next before finally moving into organs, including the lungs, liver, bone, and bone marrow. The diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma requires the biopsy of an involved lymph node or tumor site. The presence of Reed-Sternberg cells distinguishes Hodgkin lymphoma from other types of lymphomas. Doctors may use the following tests to diagnose and stage Hodgkin lymphom
