The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A
physical exam will be done, paying careful attention to your
lymph nodes. Most enlarged or swollen lymph nodes are caused by
an infection, not lymphomas. If infection is suspected, you may
be given an antibiotic medication and instructed to return for a
follow up appointment. If swelling persists, a lymph node biopsy
may be ordered. lymph node biopsy , all or part of one of your
lymph nodes will be removed. The tissue sample will be examined
under a microscope. The biopsy can show whether or not there is
cancer and the type and extent of cancer. A specific type of
cell, called Reed-Sternberg cell, is associated with If cancer
is found, your prognosis and treatment depend on the location,
size, and stage of the cancer, as well as your general health.
Staging is an evaluation to determine whether the cancer has
spread and, if it has, what body parts are affected. The
following factors are used to determine the stage of Hodgkin's
disease: The number