Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

The first step in treating your child is forming an accurate and complete diagnosis. Some forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma can grow very quickly, and thus it is critical to get an accurate diagnosis quickly in order to begin treatment right away.  Other forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma grow very slowly.  Tests to make a diagnosis and determine stage may include:

• physical exam to check for lumps from swollen lymph nodes
• reviewing patient’s history, including current symptoms, eating habits, lifestyle habits, past illnesses and past treatments
• CAT scan or MRI scan from neck to pelvis
• PET scan
• chest x-ray
• tissue biopsy (removal) from the site of the tumor
• excisional (complete) biopsy
• incisional (partial) biopsy
• core (wide needle) biopsy
• fine-needle biopsy
• bone marrow aspiration (removal) and biopsy to look for lymphoma cells
• lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to get cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal column
• complete blood count (CBC)

After we complete all necessary tests, our experts meet to review and discuss what they have learned about your child’s non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Then we meet with you and your family to discuss the results and explain the best treatment options.