- Core biopsies are acceptable if they contain adequate tissue for primary diagnosis and immunophenotyping. If the original diagnostic specimen is not available, relapsed or refractory specimens may be used. Bone marrow biopsies as the sole means of diagnosis are not acceptable; however, they may be used in conjunction with nodal biopsies. Fine needle aspirates (FNA) are not acceptable. Pathology reports must be submitted with the appropriate CRFs, and the actual biopsy specimens are not requested for central review. Patients with cHL have one of the following WHO subtypes: