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How is Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosed?

See how Hodgkin's lymphoma is diagnosed. Which specialists are essential to meet, what tests are needed and other useful information for the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma

Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis

Diagnosis of Hodgkin's Lymphoma


Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body's immune system. It is important to diagnose Hodgkin's lymphoma early to ensure timely treatment and improve the chances of a successful outcome. The diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests.



Medical History and Physical Examination


The first step in diagnosing Hodgkin's lymphoma is a detailed medical history evaluation. The doctor will ask about your symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. They will also inquire about your personal and family medical history.


Following the medical history evaluation, a physical examination will be conducted. The doctor will carefully examine your body, paying particular attention to the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and other organs. They will check for any enlarged lymph nodes or other abnormalities.



Imaging Tests


Imaging tests are crucial in diagnosing Hodgkin's lymphoma. These tests help visualize the affected areas and determine the extent of the disease. The most commonly used imaging tests include:




  • X-rays: X-rays may be taken to examine the chest area and detect any abnormalities, such as enlarged lymph nodes or tumors.

  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It helps identify enlarged lymph nodes, tumors, or other abnormalities in various parts of the body.

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. It is particularly useful in evaluating lymph nodes and other soft tissues.

  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: A PET scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the body. It helps identify areas with increased metabolic activity, which can indicate the presence of cancer cells.



Biopsy


A biopsy is the definitive test for diagnosing Hodgkin's lymphoma. It involves the removal of a small sample of tissue or cells from an affected lymph node or other abnormal area. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine the presence of cancer cells.


There are different types of biopsies that can be performed:




  • Excisional Biopsy: In this type of biopsy, an entire lymph node or a large portion of it is removed for examination.

  • Incisional Biopsy: An incisional biopsy involves the removal of a small part of an enlarged lymph node or tumor.

  • Core Needle Biopsy: A core needle biopsy uses a thin needle to extract a small sample of tissue from an affected area.

  • Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: FNA biopsy involves using a thin needle to extract a small sample of cells from an enlarged lymph node or tumor.



The biopsy sample is then analyzed to determine the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are characteristic of Hodgkin's lymphoma. The pathologist will also assess the type and stage of the disease based on the biopsy results.



Additional Laboratory Tests


Once Hodgkin's lymphoma is diagnosed, additional laboratory tests may be performed to gather more information about the disease and guide treatment decisions. These tests may include:




  • Blood Tests: Blood tests can help evaluate the overall health of the patient and check for any abnormalities, such as anemia or liver or kidney dysfunction.

  • Immunophenotyping: Immunophenotyping is a laboratory test that helps determine the specific type of lymphoma by analyzing the proteins present on the surface of cancer cells.

  • Genetic Testing: Genetic testing may be done to identify specific genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities that can provide valuable information about the prognosis and potential treatment options.

  • Bone Marrow Biopsy: In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to the bone marrow.



Conclusion


Diagnosing Hodgkin's lymphoma involves a comprehensive approach that includes medical history evaluation, physical examination, imaging tests, biopsies, and laboratory tests. The combination of these diagnostic methods helps healthcare professionals accurately identify the presence of Hodgkin's lymphoma, determine its stage, and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to each individual patient.


Diseasemaps
3 answers
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Tomography.
PET ( positron emission Tomography).
Analysis of blood

Posted Jun 13, 2017 by Sandra 2050
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Analysis of blood. Surgery. Biopsy.

Posted Sep 13, 2017 by Mariana 1300

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