Lymphoma

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Lymphoma
Classification and external resources


Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a group of blood and lymph tumors that develop from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The term "lymphoma" generally refers to the cancerous forms of these tumors, rather than all such tumors. Signs and symptoms may include enlarged lymph nodes, fever, drenching night sweats, unintended weight loss, itching, and constant fatigue. The enlarged lymph nodes are usually painless, and the sweats typically occur at night.

Diagram showing the lymph nodes

Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]

The most common symptom of lymphoma is painless swelling of one or more lymph nodes, usually in the neck, armpits, or groin. Other symptoms, known as "B symptoms," may include:

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  • Fever
  • Drenching night sweats
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Itching (pruritus)
  • Constant fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain

These symptoms can be caused by various conditions, and it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

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Nodular Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Types[edit | edit source]

Lymphomas are generally classified into two main types:

  • Hodgkin lymphoma (HL): This type is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, large abnormal cells that form in lymphoid tissue. Hodgkin lymphoma is less common than non-Hodgkin lymphoma and typically affects younger individuals.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL): This category includes all other lymphomas that do not fall under the definition of Hodgkin lymphoma. There are more than 60 subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which can be further divided into aggressive (fast-growing) and indolent (slow-growing) types.

Causes and risk factors[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of lymphoma is not entirely understood, but it is believed to result from genetic mutations and environmental factors that lead to the abnormal growth and proliferation of lymphocytes. Some risk factors for developing lymphoma include:

Subtypes according to the WHO classification[edit | edit source]

Mature B-cell neoplasms
Mature T cell and natural killer (NK) cell neoplasms
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Immunodeficiency-associated lymphoproliferative disorders

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

A diagnosis of lymphoma is typically made using a combination of the following tests and procedures:

Physical examination: A healthcare professional will check for enlarged lymph nodes, liver, and spleen, as well as any other signs or symptoms of lymphoma.

  • Biopsy: A small sample of tissue from an enlarged lymph node or other affected area is removed and examined under a microscope to determine the presence of cancerous cells and to identify the type of lymphoma.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests can provide information on the overall health of the patient and help detect abnormalities that may suggest lymphoma.
  • Imaging studies: Computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help determine the extent and location of the lymphoma in the body.
  • Bone marrow biopsy: A small sample of bone marrow is removed and examined for the presence of cancerous cells, which can help determine the stage of the lymphoma and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment of lymphoma depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and personal preferences. Treatment options may include:

  • Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing.
  • Radiation therapy: The use of high-energy rays (such as X-rays) to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
  • Immunotherapy: The use of substances that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
  • Stem cell transplant: The replacement of damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy bone marrow stem cells, either from the patient (autologous transplant) or from a donor (allogeneic transplant).

Targeted therapy: The use of drugs or other substances that specifically target and attack cancer cells, usually causing less harm to normal cells.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for lymphoma varies depending on the type, stage, and individual factors. Early detection and prompt treatment can significantly improve the prognosis. In some cases, lymphoma can be effectively managed with treatment, leading to periods of remission and a good quality of life.

See also[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Classification
External resources


Lymphoma Resources
Wikipedia

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD