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I had a PET scan done which showed a hypermetabolic 1 cm prevascular lymph node with an suv of 5.5, a hypermetabolic 1 cm peritracheal lymph node with an suv o 4.2, and a hypermetabolic 1 cm subcarinal lymph node with an suv of 4.0. This is my first PET scan. I also had an increase in my beta 2 microglobulin. Is this a strong possibility of cancer?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi! Well yes, beta-2 microglobulin levels can be elevated in multiple myeloma and lymphoma, but this needs to be clinically correlated. Hyper-metabolic lymph noes are seen in cancers with increased glucose uptake such as in Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and lung cancer. With the size and position of lymph nodes and increased beta-2 microglobulin levels, I am sorry, but yes, there are increased chances of cancer, esp lymphoma. Take care!