After receiving a diagnosis of Hodgkin following a scan and biopsy what happens next? Is it further tests to determine staging? How soon should any further diagnostic testing take?
I am sorry to hear you have been recently diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. This must have been a shock for you.
The next step would be to stage the lymphoma. The results of the biopsy and staging scans will be discussed at a Multi disciplinary Team meeting and the treatment options will be discussed.
There should be no more than 2 months wait between the date the hospital receives an urgent suspected cancer referral and the start of treatment.
Waiting timesare only guidelines, and unfortunately some Trusts are finding it difficult to reach these guidelines due to staff shortages, strikes or winter pressures.
If you have any concerns over the wait to start treatment then you could contact the Patient Advisory Liaison Service (PALS) department within the hospital who could liaise with the specialist.
I hope you find this information helpful.
Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
