On this page, you will find everything you need to know about lymphoma.
What Is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. One of its crucial roles is to protect the body from infections and fight off diseases. The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels, lymphatic fluid, and lymph nodes.
Lymphatic fluid contains white blood cells (called lymphocytes), which help the body fight infections. When lymphoma occurs, white blood cells grow and multiply abnormally, causing tumors and impairments in the immune system, hindering its normal function. Types of lymphoma include:
Hodgkin Lymphoma: This type spreads in an orderly manner from one group of lymph nodes to another.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: This type is more common than Hodgkin Lymphoma and spreads unpredictably throughout the lymphatic system.
What Are the Causes of Lymphoma?
The exact cause of lymphoma might not be clear, but several risk factors could increase the chance of developing it, such as:
A weakened immune system.
Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals.
Certain autoimmune conditions, like lupus or celiac disease.
Certain viral infections, such as HIV, Epstein-Barr virus (human herpesvirus 4), or HTLV.
A family history of lymphoma.
What Are the Symptoms of Lymphoma?
Swelling of the lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpits, or groin.
Fever.
Night sweats.
Feeling tired.
Unintentional weight loss.
Severe itching without a known cause.
What Are the Diagnosis Methods?
The doctor takes a medical history and performs a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
A biopsy of the lymph nodes.
Blood tests.
A bone marrow sample to check whether the cancer has spread to the bone marrow.
A lumbar puncture.
A chest X-ray to ensure the cancer hasn’t spread to the chest and lungs.
A CT scan (computed tomography).
A PET scan (positron emission tomography).
An MRI.
What Are the Treatment Methods for Lymphoma?
Treatment depends on the type of cancer, its severity, the patient’s age, and overall physical health. Treatment can involve various procedures or be tailored as needed, which may include:
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells and prevent them from growing.
Chemotherapy: This cancer treatment uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or preventing them from dividing and spreading. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, injected into a vein or muscle, or directly into the cerebrospinal fluid or the affected organ.
Immunotherapy or Biological Therapy.
Steroids, which improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy, are taken as pills or injections.
In some cases, the doctor may resort to stem cell or bone marrow transplants.
What Are the Prevention Methods for Lymphoma?
There is no specific way to prevent lymphoma, but it is advisable to avoid excessive exposure to radiation and chemicals.
What Are the Complications of Lymphoma?
A weakened immune system.
Infertility.
Development of another type of cancer.
Heart-related diseases and problems.
Lung-related diseases and problems.
Depression.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you find swelling in any part of the body, an abnormal lump, or if you have any symptoms of lymphoma, it is important to consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a lump in my neck or under my arm; does this mean I have cancer?
No, there are many benign tumors that appear as lumps or nodes, such as lipomas and lymphadenitis. It is important to consult a doctor to take a medical history and conduct a physical examination to determine the appropriate procedures to identify the type of tumor.
I got the COVID syndrome vaccine and then developed a lump and pain under my arm; does this mean I have cancer?
No, the appearance of lumps after vaccinations, especially on the same side where the vaccine was administered, is a natural bodily reaction involving the lymph nodes as a response to the introduction of new substances. These lumps and pains subside after a period, which may last up to three months.
I underwent an X-ray and a CT scan ordered by my doctor for a previous problem. Is it possible to get cancer because of this?
Continuous exposure to radiation can lead to cancer. However, the X-rays and scans ordered by your doctor expose you to very low levels, which do not lead to cancer, God willing.
