Usually, you begin by seeing your GP (family doctor) who will examine you and arrange for you to have any tests or x-rays that may be needed. Your GP will need to refer you to hospital for these tests and for specialist advice and treatment.

At the hospital, the doctor will take your full medical history before doing a physical examination. You may be asked to have blood tests and a chest x-ray to check your general health.

A definite diagnosis is made by removing an enlarged lymph node, or part of it, and examining the cells under a microscope. This is known as a biopsy. It may be done under local anaesthetic and sedation, or a general anaesthetic. Biopsies may also be taken from other body tissues.