Lymphoma

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.

Types of Lymphoma

1. Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)

• Distinctive feature: Presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, abnormal cells.
• Commonly affects: Often seen in young adults and those over 55.

2. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)

• Varied subtypes: Includes several different subtypes based on the specific type of lymphocyte affected (B cells or T cells).
• Commonly affects: More common than Hodgkin lymphoma and can occur at any age.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of lymphoma is not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified:

• Weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or on immunosuppressant drugs, are at higher risk.
• Infections: Certain infections like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus (HTLV) are linked to higher risk.
• Age: Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in young adults and older individuals, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma risk increases with age.
• Gender: Some types of lymphoma are more common in men than women.
• Family history: A family history of lymphoma can increase the risk.

Symptoms of Lymphoma

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Swollen lymph nodes: Often in the neck, armpits, or groin.
• Persistent fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and night sweats
• Itchy skin
• Shortness of breath or coughing

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lymphoma involves a variety of tests and procedures:

• Physical examination: To check for swollen lymph nodes or spleen.
• Biopsy: A sample of lymph node tissue is examined for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: Such as CT, MRI, or PET scans to identify affected areas.
• Blood tests: To check for abnormal levels of cells or markers.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of lymphoma and may include:

• Chemotherapy: The main treatment, using drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: Often used in early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma or combined with chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: Utilizes the body's immune system to target cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Drugs designed to target specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
• Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, often used for aggressive types or relapsed lymphoma.

Prognosis

The prognosis for lymphoma varies based on factors such as the type (Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin), stage at diagnosis, and the patient’s overall health. Advances in treatment have significantly improved survival rates for many forms of lymphoma.