Diagnosing non-Hodgkin lymphoma typically involves several tests and procedures to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.
- Medical History and Physical Exam: A healthcare provider will review symptoms, medical history, and examine lymph nodes, the spleen, and other areas of the body.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can help evaluate overall health, assess organ function, and identify abnormalities that may be associated with lymphoma.
- Lymph Node Biopsy: Removing all or part of an enlarged lymph node for examination under a microscope is the most important step in diagnosing NHL.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: A sample of bone marrow may be collected to determine whether lymphoma has spread to the bone marrow.
- Imaging Studies: CT scans, PET scans, MRI scans, and X-rays may be used to identify enlarged lymph nodes and determine how far the disease has spread.
- Flow Cytometry and Molecular Testing: Specialized laboratory tests can identify specific markers on lymphoma cells and help determine the exact subtype of NHL.
- Genetic and Biomarker Testing: Some lymphomas are tested for genetic mutations or protein markers that may guide treatment decisions.
- Staging: Once lymphoma is confirmed, additional testing helps determine the stage of the disease, which is an important factor in treatment planning.
A precise diagnosis is essential because treatment recommendations vary significantly among the many different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
