Tests to Catch Hodgkin's Lymphoma Alliance OH
Tests to Catch Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Hodgkin's Lymphoma is a form of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which is part of our body's immune system. Lymph nodes store white blood cells in clusters, or nodes, in the lymphatic system. Most lymph nodes reside in the neck, underarms and groin. Swollen lymph nodes are a classic symptom of Hodgkin's Lymphoma. They're also a symptom of many other illnesses as well, making Hodgkin's Lymphoma difficult to diagnose. Fortunately, there are other ways to test for it.
Physical exam. During an exam, your physician will check your lymph nodes to see if they are swollen and if there are signs of inflection or skin injury. If your nodes are swollen, but are soft, this generally indicates infection or inflammation. When the nodes are firm and rubbery, it's a sign of lymphoma. Stony, hard nodes are often a sign of cancer that has metastasized (spread) from elsewhere in the body. Your physician may also order a blood test to check your white blood cell count.
Imaging tests. A simple chest X-ray can reveal swollen lymph nodes. A CT scan (Computerized Tomography) or MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which also takes pictures of your chest, abdomen and pelvis, are more accurate than an X-ray and can show the extent of the cancer and if it has spread.
The PET scan is emerging as an important tool in diagnosing and managing lymphoma. PET (Positron emission tomography) is a scan that uses radioactive glucose, which highlights areas of cancer and can show if an enlarged node is benign or cancerous...
