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Blood Cancer and Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma (NHL)
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms
The following are the most common symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
• painless swelling of lymph nodes in neck, underarm, and groin
• fever
• night sweats
• fatigue
• weight loss
• itching of the skin
• recurring infections
The symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may resemble other blood disorders or medical problems, such as influenza or other infections. Some people with NHL, however, do not notice any symptoms. Their NHL may be discovered only during a blood test. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may include the following:
• Additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures
• X-rays of the chest, bones, liver, and spleen - a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
• Lymph node biopsy - a procedure performed to remove tissue or cells from the body for examination under a microscope.
• Bone marrow aspiration and/or biopsy - a procedure that involves taking a small amount of bone marrow fluid (aspiration) and/or solid bone marrow tissue (called a core biopsy), usually from the hip bones, to be examined for the number, size, and maturity of blood cells and/or abnormal cells.
• Lymphangiograms - x-rays of the lymphatic system.
• Computed tomography scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.
• Ultrasound (Also called Sonography.) - a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
NHL of the lung looks like this under a microscope:
Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma of Lung (Lo Power)
• The normal pulmonary parenchyma is obliterated.
• Lymphocytes (yellow arrows) infiltrate the lung.
• In addition foamy macrophages are present (blue arrows).
• Fibrous stroma contains lymphocytes.
Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma of Lung (Hi Power)
• This high power view shows lymphocytes (yellow arrows)
• Many show crush artifact with elongation.
• Stroma is collagenous.
• Need immunophenotyping and/or gene rearrangement to further classify.
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