How is lymphoma diagnosed and staged?
In order to diagnose lymphoma, physicians will request a complete physical exam as well as personal and family medical histories. An oncologist (cancer specialist) will usually be consulted to review the results of several tests. Blood tests will be used to test blood cell, kidney, and liver performance. They can also detect a chemical called lactase hydrogenase (LDH), of which high levels have been associated with an aggressive form of NHL. Several imaging techniques are employed in order to see if cancer exists and to find out how far they have spread. Common imaging tests include: • X-rays • Computerized tomography (CT) scans • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) • Lymphangiogram • Gallium scan • Positron emission tomography (PET) scans Physicians may also perform bone marrow examinations to see if the lymphoma has infected the bone marrow. Bone marrow samples are often taken from the hip and examined for the presence of abnormal B or T cells. The only absolute way to make a cancer dia
