lymphoma testin

[Linda6]

My husband has been monitored for the past 1 1/2 years because his lymph nodes are swollen and his counts are off. A biopsy of his right axillary node showed that either he had it in the past or would get it.(25 years ago he had his speen removed-fever of unknown origin was the only diagnosis they could come up with). He just had a PET scan which showed 2 "hot spots". So once again we are going in for biopsy. I can't find much info on PET scans but from what I hear they are very accurate in finding malignant tumors but our oncologist doesn't trust them so we are having the biopsy. Anyone have info on PET scan reliabilty or experience with these types of symptoms. Is it possible that 25 years ago he had lymphoma but removing his spleen (plus antibiotics & steroids) took care of it. Thank you. We are very frustrated with this maybe he does-maybe he doesn't.
Linda

[JanieB]

Dear Linda, PET scans can give a false positive but not a false negative...If there is hot spots its normally due to a form of malignancy, thus the biospy to determine which type...It really depends what type of Lymphoma your husband has ....The main thing is they have found something and are trying to rectify this....My thoughts and love are with you....Its easy for me to say try not to worry, I was in your position only a while ago, My husband is in remission from Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, and my mother has just passed with Lung cancer...If you need a friend email me ....
Janie xoxoxoxox