Question:
Has anyone had a bone marrow test for enlarged lymph nodes instead of a lymph node biopsy?
I was referred to an Endocrinologist for hypothyroidism. I have several nodules on my thyroid and Hashimoto's disease. A neck CT scan also showed several enlarged lymph nodes in my neck, so I was referred to an Oncologist. He mentioned doing a bone marrow test because removing part of a lymph node could injure the carotid artery, and he is trying to avoid removing a whole lymph node. I would rather have a whole lymph node removed if it is more accurate though.
I have taken two rounds of strong antibiotics so far. The antiobiotics make the lymph nodes settle down while I'm taking them, but immediately afterwards the symptoms reappear - the lymph nodes enlarge again causing pressure in my throat and difficulty swallowing. Can antibiotics cause temporary relief with lymphoma?
All of this has happened within the past three months, and it has been overwhelming with so many doctors and tests. I have extreme fatigue, occassional night sweats, and recently began itching a lot. At my last visit, I was told that I'm anemic, so now they are trying to figure out what caused that. I read that the thyroid problems could cause anemia, and so could lymphoma.
If anyone has experienced similar problems, I would love to hear what happened. Thanks!
Answer:
When my lymph node biopsy came back positive for Non Hodgkins lymphoma, the oncologist did a bone marrow biopsy. From what I understand, it's pretty routine after being diagnosed. As far as doing it instead of a lymph node biopsy, I've not heard of that. It doesn't mean it doesn't happen.
You said you have "several enlarged lymph nodes in the neck". Isn't at least one of them far enough away from the carotid artery not to cause a problem. Usually the entire lymph node is removed for biopsy, by the way, not a portion.
As far as antibiotics helping to shrink them if you have lymphoma, I've not heard that. The antibiotics should clear up the infection and in time the lymph nodes would go back to normal size.
I never had the symptoms that you have, but as you know they are also the symptoms of lymphoma. However, they can also be the symptoms of thyroid problems too, so don't give up hope. I know how unnerving this is and how it seems to take forever for answers. Sometimes the not knowing is worse than finding out that you have cancer. At least then you can take charge and do something.
Hang in there. I know it's not easy. But you will have your answers soon. I wish you luck, and good health. Let us all know how you make out.
Answer:
Thanks for the info, Debbie. Best wishes to you, I hope that you are doing well!
Answer:
I have Hodgkins Lymphoma. I went in for a swollen gland in my groin and they did all the tests first with a ultra sound. Then they removed the node. When i had the cat scan it showed the full "walls ring" nodes in the neck, face, sinuses, behind the ears, etc envolved. It also showed Nodules on my thyroid, (multiple) and further down, but anyway they didnt even bring up the bone marrow biopsy until after all was 100% confirmed then they did that, oh yeah it was positive too. I would follow the advice of your Oncoligist they seen to be pretty good at knowing what they are looking at if you do not have complete faith in him/her I would seek a second opinion maybe? As far as antibiotics when they first started the testing they started treating me for cat scratch disease, just in case, with antibiotics. Turned out to be the later.
LRuth75