18th January 2019
Swollen lymph nodes, particularly neck lumps, are one of the most common presenting symptoms in a lymphoma diagnosis. What else can support your decision making when considering the need for a suspected cancer referral?
Potential Pitfall
Lymphoma symptoms can be vague and symptoms such as fatigue overlap with many other illnesses. Furthermore, not all lymphomas cause obvious lumps and patients with lymphoma may have normal blood tests.
Helpful hint
There are a number of associated symptoms which can indicate the need to refer. NICE NG12 guidelines advise the need to take into account any associated symptoms when considering referral, particularly fever, night sweats, shortness of breath, pruritus or weight loss.
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Acess GatewayC’s ‘Lymphoma – Early Diagnosis’ course here
