Tests, diagnosis and staging
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 continue to have tests and scans during treatment, follow-up and any periods of ‘watch and wait’.
This section outlines the referral process and the tests and scans you might have at hospital.
Getting a referral for tests
Your GP is often the first person you see if you feel unwell or have symptoms of lymphoma.
Blood tests
Blood tests show how your body is affected by lymphoma and tell doctors about your general health.
X-ray, CT, MRI, and PET scans
These work in different ways to give detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
Ultrasound scan
These scans use sound waves to take pictures of the inside of your body.
Biopsy
A biopsy (sample of tissue) is usually needed before a diagnosis of lymphoma can be confirmed.
Bone marrow tests
These test whether lymphoma is in your bone marrow, which is where blood cells are made.
Lumbar puncture
This test shows if lymphoma is in your central nervous system.
Waiting for your results
Find out why it's necessary to wait for your results.
Stages of lymphoma
Find out about the different stages of lymphoma and what they mean.
Your medical team
Find out about the different people who might be involved in looking after you.