Lymphoma

How is Lymphoma Diagnosed?

Lymphoma diagnosis involves a series of steps, including a physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests, all aimed at confirming the presence of cancer and determining its type and stage. Early detection is critical to improving treatment outcomes and providing the best care.

What Tests Are Necessary for the Diagnosis of Lymphoma?

A range of diagnostic tests is used to confirm lymphoma and identify its specific type and extent.

Blood Tests

The first step in diagnosing lymphoma is typically a blood test. A blood sample is analysed to measure:

Hemoglobin
White blood cells (WBC)
Platelets

Normal vs. Abnormal Blood Count:

In healthy individuals, these counts fall within a standard range. In acute lymphoma, haemoglobin and platelet counts are typically low, while the white blood cell count may vary (it could be high, normal, or even low).
A stained blood film examination can also be performed, where the blood sample is examined under a microscope to detect abnormal or immature cells (blasts), which are indicative of lymphoma.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the key test to confirm lymphoma. A small piece of tissue, often from a lymph node, is removed and examined under the microscope.

The biopsy identifies whether lymphoma is present and what type it is, which is vital for deciding treatment. The procedure is safe and done under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the site.

Bone Marrow Examination

A bone marrow biopsy is often required for definitive lymphoma diagnosis. Here's how it works:

Procedure: A sample of bone marrow is extracted from the iliac crest (hipbone) or sternum using a specialised needle.
Analysis:/strong> The bone marrow sample is analysed to detect lymphoma cells and identify the subtype. This step provides detailed insights into the type and severity of lymphoma.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are essential for determining the stage of lymphoma and assessing whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Common imaging techniques include:

CT Scans (Computed Tomography): Provide detailed cross-sectional images to detect enlarged lymph nodes or affected organs.
PET Scans (Positron Emission Tomography): Highlights areas of high metabolic activity, often indicating cancerous growths.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offers detailed images of soft tissues and is particularly useful for identifying lymphoma in the brain or spinal cord.

These imaging studies help healthcare professionals determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment Options for Lymphoma Cancer

The treatment for lymphoma depends on its type, stage, and how aggressive it is. A combination of therapies may be used to achieve the best outcomes.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicine to kill lymphoma cells. It can be given by drip, injection, or tablets.

Several drugs are often combined for better results. Side effects such as tiredness, hair loss, or nausea are usually temporary and manageable with modern care.

Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

For certain types of lymphoma, chemotherapy is combined with radiation therapy to treat localised lymphoma or shrink tumours before further treatments. Radiation uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and is often employed alongside chemotherapy for better results.

Biological Therapies (Immunotherapy)

Biological therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies, help the immune system target and destroy lymphoma cells. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's natural defence mechanisms to fight cancer.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy targets specific genetic mutations or molecular pathways in lymphoma cells. This approach allows for more precise treatment, killing cancer cells while minimising damage to healthy tissue.

Stem Cell Transplant (Bone Marrow Transplant)

Stem cell transplantation involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells to restore blood cell production. This follows strong chemotherapy to clear remaining lymphoma cells, after which healthy stem cells are infused to rebuild normal blood production.

CAR-T Cell Therapy

CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell) therapy is a form of immunotherapy where a patient's T cells are genetically modified to recognise and kill lymphoma cells. This treatment is used primarily for relapsed or aggressive lymphomas.

Watchful Waiting

For slow-growing (indolent) lymphomas, immediate treatment may not be required. In these cases, watchful waiting is recommended, with regular monitoring of the lymphoma’s progression. Treatment is initiated only if symptoms worsen or the cancer progresses. Such an approach avoids overtreatment and preserves quality of life.

Preparing for Your Lymphoma Appointment

If you suspect you may have lymphoma or are at risk, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. You may be referred to a haematologist or oncologist for specialised care based on your symptoms and medical history.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

To make the most of your consultation at SJMC, consider the following steps:

List Your Symptoms: Write down any symptoms you’re experiencing, even if they seem unrelated.
Bring a list of medicines you use.
Prepare Questions: Create a list of questions to ask your healthcare professional, such as:
- What type of lymphoma do I have?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are the potential side effects of each treatment?
Bring a Companion: A friend or family member can help you remember important details from the discussion.
Being well-prepared ensures that you can actively participate in decisions about your care at SJMC. Your doctor will explain each stage with care and ensure you feel informed and involved.

Coping and Support

A lymphoma diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first, but you are not alone. With the right information, medical care, and emotional support, most people adjust well and lead fulfilling lives during and after treatment.

You can draw strength from:

Family and friends, who provide both emotional and practical help.
Support groups, where others share experiences and encouragement.
SJMC counsellors and oncology nurses, who offer guidance and a listening ear.

Take one day at a time, rest when needed, and be kind to yourself as you recover.

A Word of Encouragement

Lymphoma is highly treatable, and outcomes today are better than ever. Many people recover completely, while others live long, active lives with well-controlled disease.

At SJMC, we walk beside you every step of the way — offering expert care, honest answers, and genuine compassion. Together, we aim not only for recovery but for renewed confidence and peace of mind

FAQs About Lymphoma Diagnosis and Treatment

The lymph node biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing lymphoma, allowing pathologists to examine tissue samples for cancer cells.

CAR-T cell therapy modifies a patient's T-cells to target and destroy lymphoma cells. It is effective for advanced or relapsed lymphomas.

A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue, often from a lymph node, for laboratory analysis to detect cancer cells and determine the type of lymphoma.

Common side effects of chemotherapy include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and a weakened immune system. Your healthcare team will help manage these side effects.

Targeted therapy focuses on specific cancer-causing molecules, sparing healthy cells, while chemotherapy attacks all rapidly dividing cells, including healthy ones.

Yes, alternatives such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and CAR-T cell therapy are available. These treatments are typically used based on the lymphoma type and the patient's response to previous treatments.

Yes, for slow-growing lymphomas, a "watchful waiting" approach may be recommended. This involves regular monitoring without immediate treatment, starting therapy only if symptoms develop or the cancer progresses.