Tests, scans and staging for lymphoma
Doctors use tests and scans to diagnose lymphoma and to find out more about it after a diagnosis is confirmed. This helps them plan the best treatment for you. You might have further tests and scans during treatment, follow-up and any periods of active monitoring (‘watch and wait’).
Find out more in this section about the referral process and the tests and scans you might have. You might also be interested in watching our video on scans.
Getting a referral for tests
Your GP is often the first person you speak to if you have concerns about your health or if you feel unwell.
Blood tests
Blood tests give doctors useful information about your general health and help show how lymphoma is affecting your body.
PET, CT, and PET/CT scans
These work in different ways to give detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
MRI scans
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses a strong magnet and radio waves to make detailed images of the inside of your body.
Ultrasound scan and X-ray
These scans can help doctors diagnose and find out about some types of lymphoma.
Find out more by watching our video on scans.
Biopsy
A biopsy (sample of tissue) is usually needed before a diagnosis of lymphoma can be confirmed.
Bone marrow biopsy
This tests whether you have lymphoma cells in your bone marrow, where blood cells are made.
Lumbar puncture
This test shows if you have lymphoma in your central nervous system or (brain, spinal cord and eyes).
Waiting for your results
Find out why it can take time to get your results and tips to help cope with the wait.
Stages of lymphoma
Find out about the different stages of lymphoma and what they mean.
Your medical team
Find out about the healthcare professionals who might be involved in your treatment and care.
Scans and lymphoma
Dr Manil Subesinghe describes the reasons why you might have scans and what the different scans show.
You might also like to listen to our podcast on the role of the radiologist with Dr Subesinghe.