Medical

Everything You Need to Know About Lymphoma

Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, affects the lymphatic system. Being aware of the symptoms for timely diagnosis and treatment are essential.

By URLife Team

15 Sep 2023

There is a common conception that cancer is incurable, especially if found at a later stage. However, most forms of cancer are curable as long as timely treatment is administered. Significant advancements in medical research and treatment modalities like innovative therapies and growing emphasis on preventive screenings have revolutionised the approach to cancer care, offering hope and improved outcomes for those affected. Knowledge of the symptoms and treatment options is much needed in a country like India, which is ranked third after China and the United States of America in cancer cases each year, as per Indian Journal of Medical Research.

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Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer. The lymphatic system of our body is a network which helps in fighting diseases. This system includes lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland and bone marrow. The cancer that starts in the lymphatic system is known as lymphoma and this type of cancer affects white blood cells called lymphocytes.

While it may sound daunting, understanding lymphoma is important for everyone, irrespective of whether you are diagnosed or not, being aware of what it is, its symptoms, types, diagnosis and treatment options is crucial.

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Understanding the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system comprises a network of vessels and nodes that transport lymph fluid, containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body. Lymph nodes serve as filters, capturing and eliminating bacteria and viruses to prevent the spread of infections. However, at times, lymphocytes, the cells within lymph, can become cancerous

Causes of Lymphoma

The exact causes of lymphoma are not fully understood, but there are several risk factors that may contribute to the development of this type of cancer. It's important to note that lymphoma is a complex disease, and multiple factors may interact to increase the risk. Some of the known factors and risk factors associated with lymphoma include:

Genetic factors: There is evidence to suggest that certain genetic mutations or a family history of lymphoma may increase the risk of developing the disease.
Compromised immune system: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation with immunosuppressive medications, can raise the risk of lymphoma.
Infections: Certain infections have been linked to an increased risk of lymphoma. For example, the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been associated with some cases of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Helicobacter pylori infection is linked to an increased risk of gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma.
Age: Lymphoma can occur at any age, but some types are more common in specific age groups. For example, Hodgkin lymphoma often affects young adults, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in older individuals.
Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, such as pesticides, solvents, and benzene, may increase the risk of lymphoma, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Autoimmune diseases: Some autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis have been associated with a slightly increased risk of lymphoma.
Previous cancer treatment: Individuals who have undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy for other cancers may have a slightly higher risk of developing lymphoma as a secondary cancer.
Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and obesity, have been known as potential risk factors for certain types of lymphoma.

Types of Lymphoma

Lymphoma is broadly categorised into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Within these categories, there are various subtypes, each with its unique characteristics. The key difference between them is the presence or absence of Reed-Sternberg cells, a specific type of abnormal cell.

Hodgkin Lymphoma: This relatively rare form of lymphoma is characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in the lymph nodes. It typically affects younger people and has a high cure rate with timely treatment.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): NHL encompasses a wide range of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells. It is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma and includes subtypes like diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma, among others. NHL is the most common type of lymphoma in India.

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Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, and some people may experience no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages. Therefore, it is mandatory to consult your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms. Here are some common lymphoma symptoms:

Enlarged lymph nodes: One of the significant signs of lymphoma is the presence of swollen lymph nodes, typically in the neck, armpits, or groyne. These nodes are often painless but can be tender to the touch.
Fatigue: Many people with lymphoma report feeling extreme tiredness or fatigue that doesn't improve with rest.
Unexplained weight loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, often more than 10 per cent of your body weight, can be a sign of lymphoma.
Night sweats: Excessive sweating at night, which can drench your clothes and bedding, is a common symptom of lymphoma.
Fever: Recurrent or persistent fevers, without any other known cause, may be a symptom of lymphoma.
Itchy skin: Some lymphoma patients experience itchy skin, which can be generalised or localised.
Shortness of breath: If lymphoma affects the thymus gland or lymph nodes in the chest, it can lead to breathing difficulties.
Abdominal pain or swelling: Lymphoma in the abdominal area can cause pain, swelling, or a feeling of fullness.
Cough or chest pain: Lymphoma can affect lymph nodes in the chest, leading to symptoms like a persistent cough or chest pain.

Diagnosis of Lymphoma

Diagnosing lymphoma typically involves a combination of tests, including:

Physical Examination: A doctor will examine you for swollen lymph nodes and other physical signs.
Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from an affected lymph node or organ to confirm the presence of cancer cells. This is the most mandatory examination to confirm the condition.
Imaging Tests: CT scans, PET scans, and MRI scans help determine the extent of the disease.
Blood Tests: Blood work can reveal abnormal levels of white blood cells or other signs of lymphoma.

What are the different stages of cancer?

Once diagnosed, lymphoma is staged to determine its extent. The stages range from I (early stage) to IV (advanced stage), with higher stages indicating more widespread disease.

Treatment Options

Treatment for lymphoma depends on the type, stage, and individual patient factors. Common treatment options include:

Chemotherapy: Medications are used to destroy cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy: High-energy X-rays target and destroy cancer cells.
Stem Cell Transplant: This is used for certain aggressive lymphomas and involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
Targeted Therapy: These drugs target specific molecules involved in lymphoma cell growth.
Immunotherapy: This treatment enhances the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.

Lymphoma is a complex group of blood cancers that require personalised treatment approaches. Understanding the different types, causes, symptoms, and available treatments is essential for both patients and their loved ones. So don’t rely on self-treatment and get regular check ups done to ensure sound health.

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