Lymphoma: Cancer of the Lymphatic System

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a network of tissues and organs that help the body fight infection and disease. The lymphatic system is composed of lymph nodes, lymph vessels, bone marrow, and the spleen. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs that filter lymph, a fluid that carries white blood cells throughout the body. When lymphoma develops, the lymph nodes can become swollen and painful.

Types of Lymphoma

There are many different types of lymphoma, but they are broadly classified into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is a relatively rare type of lymphoma that is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, a type of abnormal cell found in the lymph nodes. Hodgkin lymphoma usually affects young adults and older adults. Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a more common type of lymphoma that includes a wide variety of subtypes. It affects people of all ages. Symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma vary depending on the type and stage of the disease but can include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and shortness of breath.

Causes of Lymphoma

The exact cause of lymphoma is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing lymphoma include:

Genetic Factors

Some people are born with genetic predispositions that make them more likely to develop lymphoma. For example, people with certain genetic disorders, such as Ataxia-telangiectasia, are at an increased risk of developing lymphoma.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as radiation, certain chemicals, and viruses, may also increase the risk of developing lymphoma. For example, people who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, such as those who worked at nuclear power plants or received radiation therapy for cancer, are at an increased risk of developing lymphoma.

Symptoms of Lymphoma

The symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some common symptoms of lymphoma include:

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of lymphoma. The lymph nodes may be painless or tender to the touch. They are most often found in the neck, armpits, and groin.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common symptom of lymphoma. This may be caused by the cancer cells consuming energy or by the body's immune system fighting the cancer.

Weight Loss

Weight loss is a common symptom of lymphoma. This may be caused by the cancer cells consuming energy or by the body's immune system fighting the cancer.

Fever

Fever is another common symptom of lymphoma. This may be caused by the cancer cells releasing chemicals that trigger a fever response.

Night Sweats

Night sweats are a common symptom of lymphoma. This may be caused by the cancer cells releasing chemicals that trigger a sweating response.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a symptom of lymphoma that can occur when the cancer cells grow and press on the lungs or other organs.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a symptom of lymphoma that can occur when the cancer cells grow and press on the lungs or other organs.

Diagnosis of Lymphoma

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of lymphoma, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. A doctor will perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and order tests to diagnose the disease. Some common tests used to diagnose lymphoma include:

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the body and examined under a microscope. Biopsies are often used to confirm a diagnosis of lymphoma.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can be used to check for signs of lymphoma, such as an elevated white blood cell count or abnormal blood proteins.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, can be used to create images of the lymph nodes and other organs to check for signs of lymphoma.

Treatment of Lymphoma

The treatment for lymphoma will depend on the type and stage of the disease. Some common treatments for lymphoma include:

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used to treat lymphoma, either alone or in combination with other treatments.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used to treat lymphoma, either alone or in combination with other treatments.

Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell transplant is a procedure in which healthy stem cells are transplanted into the body to replace the stem cells that have been destroyed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Stem cell transplants are sometimes used to treat lymphoma.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy is a relatively new treatment for lymphoma, but it has shown promise in clinical trials.

Prognosis of Lymphoma

The prognosis for lymphoma varies depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some types of lymphoma are very treatable, while others are more difficult to treat. The overall five-year survival rate for lymphoma is about 70%. However, the survival rate can vary significantly depending on the specific type and stage of the disease. It is important to discuss your individual prognosis with your doctor.