How is AIDS-related lymphoma diagnosed?

To diagnose AIDS-related lymphoma, your doctor may examine you physically, checking for swollen lymph nodes and other abnormalities. You may also need some of the following tests:

1. Blood tests. These may check your levels of HIV antibodies, platelets, red and white blood cells, and hemoglobin. Blood tests can also check for Epstein Barr virus infection.
2. Imaging tests, such as an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI.
3. A biopsy, or sample, of tissue to be tested for cancer. This sample may be removed from your brain, bone marrow, or lymph nodes, depending on where the cancer may be.