The radiology of lymphoma

The development of new imaging techniques over recent years has improved the accuracy with which the extent of the disease can be demonstrated in patients with lymphoma. These methods either complement or replace existing conventional radiological methods such as plain films, bariums, intravenous urograms or lymphography. CT in particular, and to a lesser extent ultrasound and radionuclides, now plays an important part in helping the clinician to manage patients with lymphoma. It is impractical and unnecessary to use all available imaging studies. More than ever, close co-operation between the clinician and radiologist is essential to derive the maximum amount of information from the studies and to use the techniques effectively and appropriately. This chapter has reviewed the advantages and limitations of each imaging method, stressing the role of each in staging the lymphomas and in monitoring response to treatment. The common radiological appearances of the effects of lymphoma on each organ system have been described. The possible contribution that other techniques may make in the future has been discussed.