What tests do I need right after being diagnosed with Lymphoma

Tests After a Lymphoma Diagnosis

After being diagnosed with lymphoma, your care team will order several important tests to understand your specific type of lymphoma and plan your treatment. Here's what you should expect:

Core Diagnostic Tests

Tissue Biopsy & Immunophenotyping Your doctors will examine the lymphoma cells in detail using a biopsy sample (usually from a lymph node). According to NCCN Guidelines, immunophenotyping uses special antibodies to identify specific markers on your cancer cells. This process helps classify your exact lymphoma type and distinguish it from other types of lymphoma. For example, certain marker patterns (like CD10+, BCL2+, CD20+) help define specific lymphoma subtypes and guide treatment decisions.

Biomarker and Genetic Testing NCCN Guidelines explain that mutation testing looks for specific genetic changes in your lymphoma cells. These DNA changes may include:

• Deletions (missing parts of genes)
• Amplifications (duplicated genes)
• Translocations (rearrangements between chromosomes)
• Point mutations (single gene changes)

Some mutations can be targeted with specific therapies, while others may affect how your cancer responds to treatment. This testing is separate from inherited genetic testing and helps your doctors understand your individual cancer's characteristics.

Imaging Tests

CT Scan (Computed Tomography) According to NCCN Guidelines, a CT scan uses x-rays and computer technology to take detailed pictures of your chest, abdomen, and pelvis. This shows where lymphoma deposits are located in your body. Contrast material (a special substance, not a dye) is usually used to make the images clearer.

PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography) A PET scan uses a radioactive tracer injected into your vein to show where cancer cells are active in your body. Cancer cells appear as bright spots because they use more sugar than normal cells. When combined with a CT scan (called PET/CT), this gives your doctors a comprehensive picture of your disease.

MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) An MRI uses radio waves and powerful magnets instead of x-rays to create detailed images. Your care team may recommend this depending on your specific situation.

Blood and Bone Marrow Tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC) This measures your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to see how your bone marrow is functioning.

Bone Marrow Tests According to NCCN Guidelines, your doctors may perform bone marrow tests depending on your situation. These include:

• Bone marrow aspirate - removes liquid and cells from your bone marrow
• Bone marrow biopsy - removes a small piece of bone marrow tissue

These samples are usually taken from the back of your hip bone. These tests help determine if lymphoma has spread to your bone marrow.

Why These Tests Matter

These tests serve several purposes:

• Confirm your diagnosis and identify your specific lymphoma type
• Determine your stage (how far the cancer has spread)
• Identify treatment targets through biomarker testing
• Establish a baseline to measure treatment response
• Guide your treatment plan based on your individual cancer characteristics

Questions to Ask Your Care Team

1. Which specific tests will I need, and in what order?
2. How long will it take to get all my test results?
3. What do my specific biomarkers mean for my treatment options?
4. Will you do molecular residual disease (MRD) testing during or after treatment to monitor for recurrence?
5. How will you use these test results to create my treatment plan?

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.