How to Test for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a large grouping of different types of cancer that can affect many areas of the body. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma originates in a person's lymphatic system and that can spread as the tumors develop. The symptoms, like fever, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, fatigue and pain in the chest can typically be confused with other diseases and the person will require extensive testing in order to receive a definitive diagnosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your physician. Prior to setting up the tests for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, he'll perform a physical exam and get your medical history to determine your risk factors.

• 2

  Undergo a series of blood tests. The blood tests are usually used to rule out other causes of your symptoms, like a virus, infection or other type of medical condition.

• 3

  Set up different types of X-rays. As part of your diagnosis, your doctor will require that you have a CT scan and PET scan. A CT Scan will X-ray different parts of your body, including your chest and head to look for tumors. A PET scan will involve the injection of a radioactive dye into the body and then a scan to look for additional tumors. A bone scan may also be done to monitor any bone changes that could have occurred due to the lymphoma.

• 4

  Allow your doctor to take a biopsy from your lymph nodes. If she suspects that you do have non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, she will biopsy tissue from your lymph nodes. The biopsy will be sent to the lab to determine the presence of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and the severity of the cancer.

• 5

  Expect to have a bone marrow biopsy performed as well. Following the biopsy of your lymph nodes, a doctor will likely order a biopsy of your bone marrow to see if the cancer is present there.