Lymphoma diagnosis
Lymphoma diagnosis is commonly established by a biopsy of a suspected lymph node. Histological examination is one of the primary decision-making criteria1, and in recent years, techniques that detect molecular and biological changes in the lymphocytes have refined the definitions of the disease and evaluation of prognosis. Bone marrow samples are taken to determine whether there is bone marrow infiltration2, and in some cases, a diagnosis of NHL can be made from a bone marrow examination, thereby avoiding the need for lymph node biopsy. A full blood count and biochemistry studies are key parts of the diagnostic and prognostic procedure. Immunophenotypic analysis is another important tool for the classification of lymphoma subtypes.
References
- Constine LS, Qazi R, Rubin P. Malignant lymphomas, In Clinical Oncology. A multidisciplinary approach for physicians and students.Philadelphia: WB Sanders Company, 1993: 217-50.
- Neal AJ, Hoskin PJ. Clinical oncology: basic principles and practice. Arnold 2003, 3rd Edition.
