Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, the spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably.
Types of Lymphoma: Lymphoma is classified into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
- Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, large abnormal cells found in the lymph nodes. It accounts for a minority of lymphoma cases and tends to occur more often in young adults.
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Non-Hodgkin lymphoma encompasses a diverse group of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells. There are many subtypes of NHL, which can vary in terms of aggressiveness, prognosis, and treatment.
Risk Factors: The exact cause of lymphoma is often unknown, but several factors may increase the risk of developing the disease. These risk factors include immune system deficiencies (such as HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive therapy), infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus or Helicobacter pylori), certain autoimmune diseases, exposure to certain chemicals (such as benzene), older age, family history of lymphoma, and genetic predisposition.
Symptoms: Symptoms of lymphoma may vary depending on the type, subtype, and stage of the disease. Common symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes (which may or may not be painful), fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, itching, and difficulty breathing or chest pain (in cases where lymphoma affects the chest or mediastinum).
Diagnosis: Lymphoma is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods, including physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests (such as CT scan or PET scan), lymph node biopsy (removal and examination of a sample of lymph node tissue), bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing. The presence of Reed-Sternberg cells may help differentiate Hodgkin lymphoma from non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Treatment: Treatment for lymphoma depends on factors such as the type, subtype, and stage of the disease, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy (such as monoclonal antibodies or checkpoint inhibitors), targeted therapy (such as kinase inhibitors), stem cell transplantation, and supportive care measures (such as blood transfusions and antibiotics). Treatment may be used alone or in combination, and it may be tailored to each person’s specific situation.
Prognosis: The prognosis for lymphoma varies depending on factors such as the type, subtype, and stage of the disease, the individual’s age and overall health, and how well the lymphoma responds to treatment. Some types of lymphoma have a relatively good prognosis with high survival rates, while others may be more aggressive and difficult to treat.