To identify lymphoma, you may need tests with scanning machines that produce images of your body. A radiologist will interpret these images to understand the precise location and size of a tumor.

X-ray

This test may show the extent of disease in the bone.

PET and CT scans

A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a nuclear imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to highlight areas of suspicious cells. Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to take cross-sectional images of the body. We use these technologies alone or combined, depending on the information we need from the scans.

During treatment, our doctors use PET scans alone to:

• Determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes (small glands that filter bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, and other impurities) or other parts of the body and, if so, where
• Monitor how well cancer is responding to treatment
• See if cancer has returned after treatment

We offer combined PET/CT scanning, which takes both scans at the same time and in the same machine to keep you in the same position. This technique allows us to combine CT images of the body with PET scans that highlight possible areas of cancer.

The combined PET/CT images show the specific locations of any cancer, providing more precise information for treatment. We use PET/CT scans to:

• Stage cancer
• Check other parts of the body to see if cancer has spread there
• Monitor cancer’s response to treatment

Stanford Health Library

For confidential help with your health care questions, contact the Stanford Health Library. Professional medical librarians and trained volunteers can help you access journals, books, e-books, databases, and videos to learn more about medical conditions, treatment options, and related issues.

• 875 Blake Wilbur, Palo Alto: First floor near the cafe, 650-736-1960

• South Bay Cancer Center: Third floor lobby, 408-353-0197
• Email us your questions: healthlibrary@stanfordhealthcare.org