Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a group of conditions affecting lymphocytes and lymph nodes. We see people with suspected or confirmed Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma at our Sunbury and Williamstown clinics, in partnership with GPs and hospital teams.
What it is
Lymphomas arise from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. They can involve lymph nodes, the spleen, bone marrow, or other organs, and they range from slow-growing (indolent) conditions that may be watched over years to more aggressive types that need prompt treatment. Hodgkin lymphoma and the many subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are diagnosed on biopsy, not on symptoms alone. Persistent lumps, night sweats, unexplained fever, weight loss, or abnormal blood counts can lead to investigation, but the same symptoms have many other causes. Talk to your GP if you are worried — this information is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice.
How we help
Our role is specialist haematology assessment: reviewing biopsy and imaging, arranging further tests if the diagnosis is incomplete, and discussing whether observation, systemic treatment, or hospital-based care is appropriate. We also review chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and related lymphoid disorders. Where intensive treatment or a clinical trial is being considered, we coordinate referral to the relevant tertiary service and remain involved in follow-up closer to home in Melbourne’s west.
For patients
- Most people are referred after a biopsy, scan, or abnormal blood test organised by their GP or another specialist.
- Please bring histopathology reports, PET or CT results, and a list of current medicines to your first visit.
- Some lymphomas are managed with active monitoring rather than immediate treatment; we will explain why if that applies.
- Consultations are at Vineyard Medical Centre in Sunbury or Williamstown Specialist Centre.
- If you develop rapidly enlarging nodes, fevers, or difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical care and contact the rooms.
For GPs
- We welcome referrals for lymphadenopathy with concerning features, abnormal lymphocyte counts, suspected lymphoma, and established lymphoid conditions.
- Please include biopsy reports (or the planned biopsy site), FBC and film, LDH where available, and relevant imaging.
- Urgent review is appropriate for bulky or rapidly progressive disease, cytopenias, or B symptoms with a high clinical suspicion of aggressive lymphoma.
- We copy correspondence to the referring doctor and can share follow-up of stable indolent disease.
When to refer
- Persistent or progressive lymphadenopathy, especially with B symptoms
- Unexplained lymphocytosis or a film suggesting a lymphoproliferative disorder
- Confirmed Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma needing haematology staging and treatment planning
- CLL or related conditions requiring specialist opinion on treatment timing
Clinics and referrals
Consultations are at Sunbury Clinic, Vineyard Medical Centre, 2-6 Sussex Court, Sunbury VIC 3429, and Williamstown Clinic, Williamstown Specialist Centre, 87 Ferguson Street, Williamstown VIC 3016. A GP referral is required.
Related information
This page is general information about haematology conditions and services. It is not a diagnosis, treatment recommendation, or a substitute for medical advice. Please talk to your GP if you have symptoms or abnormal blood results.