Question 1

What is Lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system that affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. It is caused by genetic mutations that cause lymphocytes to grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors in lymph nodes and other organs. The Immunofixation, Serum test is the most important test for lymphoma classification because it identifies abnormal proteins produced by cancerous lymphatic cells.

Question 2

What causes lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Lymphoma is caused by genetic mutations in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, that cause these cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. These abnormal lymphocytes accumulate in lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs, forming tumors throughout the lymphatic system. While the exact trigger for these mutations is not always known, risk factors include weakened immune system, certain viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to specific chemicals or radiation.

Question 3

What is the best test for lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

The Immunofixation, Serum test is the most important blood test for lymphoma because it identifies abnormal proteins called monoclonal proteins produced by cancerous lymphatic cells, which is essential for classifying the specific type of lymphoma. The Beta-2 Microglobulin, Serum test is also essential as elevated levels indicate more aggressive disease and help doctors determine treatment intensity. The Kappa/Lambda Light Chains, Free with Ratio test detects protein imbalances characteristic of certain lymphoma types, while the Protein Electrophoresis and Kappa/Lambda Light Chains test provides comprehensive analysis of all protein patterns. These specialized blood tests work together to classify lymphoma type, assess disease severity, and monitor treatment response.

Question 4

When should I get tested for lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have persistent swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin that last longer than two weeks, especially if accompanied by unexplained weight loss, drenching night sweats, or persistent fever. You should also consider testing if you experience extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest, frequent infections, or if you have risk factors like a weakened immune system or autoimmune disease. Early detection through blood testing helps classify the lymphoma type and guides appropriate treatment planning.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Lymphoma symptoms include painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin that persists for more than two weeks. You might notice unexplained weight loss of more than 10% of body weight, drenching night sweats that soak your sheets, persistent fever without infection, extreme fatigue, itchy skin, and chest pain or difficulty breathing if lymph nodes in the chest are enlarged. Some people experience abdominal pain or swelling if the spleen or liver is affected. These symptoms can develop gradually and may be mistaken for common illnesses, which is why persistent symptoms warrant blood testing.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

People with weakened immune systems from HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus have increased lymphoma risk. Those with past infections from Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C, or H. pylori bacteria face higher risk, as do individuals exposed to certain chemicals like pesticides or herbicides. Lymphoma risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 60, and having a family history of lymphoma or other blood cancers also elevates risk. People who received radiation therapy or chemotherapy for previous cancers may develop lymphoma years later.

Question 7

What happens if lymphoma is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated lymphoma spreads throughout the lymphatic system and into vital organs like the liver, lungs, and bone marrow, progressively damaging these organs and compromising their function. The cancer weakens the immune system, making you vulnerable to life-threatening infections your body cannot fight. You will experience severe anemia, extreme fatigue, uncontrolled bleeding, and organ failure as the disease advances. Some aggressive lymphomas can progress rapidly within weeks to months if left untreated, while slower-growing types may take years but still ultimately become life-threatening. Early diagnosis through blood testing and prompt treatment significantly improve survival rates and quality of life.

Question 8

Can lymphoma be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Lymphoma cannot be definitively diagnosed with blood tests alone, as tissue biopsy of an affected lymph node is required for definitive diagnosis. However, specialized blood tests are essential for classifying the specific type of lymphoma, assessing disease aggressiveness, and monitoring treatment response once lymphoma is suspected or confirmed. Tests like Immunofixation, Serum and Kappa/Lambda Light Chains detect abnormal proteins produced by lymphoma cells, while Beta-2 Microglobulin levels indicate disease severity. Blood work also evaluates how lymphoma affects your blood cells, liver, and kidney function, providing crucial information that guides treatment decisions alongside biopsy and imaging results.

Question 9

How is lymphoma treated?

Accepted Answer

Lymphoma treatment depends on the specific type and stage but typically includes chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Many patients receive immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies like rituximab that target cancer cells specifically, and radiation therapy may be used to destroy lymphoma in specific areas. Some aggressive lymphomas require stem cell transplantation, where high-dose chemotherapy eliminates cancer cells before healthy stem cells are transplanted to rebuild the immune system. Newer targeted therapies and CAR T-cell therapy are available for certain lymphoma types that do not respond to standard treatments. Blood tests are performed regularly throughout treatment to monitor how well therapy is working and to adjust the treatment plan.

Question 10

How can I prevent lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce lymphoma risk by maintaining a healthy immune system through proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. Avoid exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and toxic chemicals whenever possible, and practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to prevent HIV and hepatitis infections that increase lymphoma risk. Get tested and treated for H. pylori infection if you have stomach problems, as this bacteria is linked to certain lymphomas. If you have an autoimmune disease, work closely with your doctor to manage it effectively. While these steps reduce risk, many lymphoma cases occur without identifiable preventable causes, making awareness of symptoms and regular health monitoring important.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support lymphoma treatment?

Accepted Answer

You can support your body during lymphoma treatment by eating a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables to maintain strength and help your immune system. Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily, get adequate rest with 7-9 hours of sleep nightly, and engage in gentle exercise like walking as energy permits to maintain muscle mass and reduce fatigue. Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, or activities you enjoy, and avoid people who are sick since lymphoma and its treatment weaken your immune system. Keep all medical appointments and get your blood work done as scheduled to monitor treatment response and catch complications early. These supportive measures complement medical treatment but do not replace chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other prescribed therapies.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Lymphoma Blood Test

What is Lymphoma?

What causes lymphoma?

What is the best test for lymphoma?

When should I get tested for lymphoma?

References

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