Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the immune system. It causes infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes to become overgrown and out of control.
There are two types of lymphoma:
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: This type is the most common type that is diagnosed.
Hodgkin's Lymphoma: This type of cancer differs because it effects different types of lymphocytes. It also more commonly originates in the upper body, rather than random lymph nodes throughout the body.
It should be noted that lymphoma is not leukemia. They are both blood cancers. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes and leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow's blood-forming cells.
Symptoms Of Lymphoma
Some indicators you may have this condition include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen but painless lymph nodes. They are often located in the neck, groin, or armpits.
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Night sweating
- Fever
- Itching
If you suffer from one or more of these symptoms, you may want to be checked for lymphoma. In some cases, the symptoms can indicate other conditions, as well. It's best to seek medical help.
Causes Of Lymphoma
Things that have been known to contribute to this condition include:
- Having been infected with viruses such as Epstein-Barr, HTLV-1, or hepatitis C
- Having suffered exposure to benzene or other pesticides
- Having a family history of lymphoma
- Having immune system diseases
- Having a weakened immune system due to organ transplant, HIV, or congenital immune conditions
- Having undergone radiation treatment for cancer previously
If you have one or more of these risk factors, your chances of getting lymphoma are higher. It's important to seek medical help if you have symptoms.
How Is Lymphoma Diagnosed?
Methods of diagnosis include the following:
A medical professional will use one or more of these tests to rule out other illnesses and to positively diagnose lymphoma.
Treatment Options For Lymphoma
Once there is an official medical diagnosis, treatment can begin. The choice of treatment options for this condition depends on the type of lymphoma.
Non-Hodgkin's Treatments:
Hodgkin's Treatments:
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
If these methods are unsuccessful at fighting cancer, doctors might opt to try stem cell trasplant instead. A stem cell transplant is a two-part process:
1. Get large doses of chemotherapy to kill the blood-making cells in the bone marrow.
2. Get a transplant of stem cells to replace those that were destroyed to form new, healthy cells.
Stem cells can come from the patient or another donor. A stem cell transplant from the patient is referred to as autologous transplant. Stem cell transplant via donor cells is referred to as an allogeneic transplant. Your doctor will choose the best transplant option.
Like other cancers, lymphoma is treatable and often survivable if caught early. Staying on top of your health and noticing any symptoms or changes in your body and functioning is key to getting proper care in a timely manner.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
