Lymphoma

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It involves the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Lymphoma can be classified into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It can affect individuals of any age, though the incidence varies with age and type.

Treatment

Treatment for lymphoma is tailored based on the type and stage of the disease. The primary treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
• Radiation Therapy: Targets specific areas of lymphoma with high-energy rays.
• Targeted Therapy: Employs drugs or other substances that specifically target cancer cells without affecting normal cells.
• Immunotherapy: Utilizes the body's immune system to identify and destroy cancer cells.
• Stem Cell Transplantation: Replaces damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells.

The choice of treatment depends on the lymphoma type, stage, and the patient's overall health.

Types of Lymphoma

• Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): Characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, typically presenting with symptoms like swollen lymph nodes and fever.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): A diverse group of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells, with various subtypes including B-cell and T-cell lymphomas.

Common Symptoms

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and night sweats
• Fatigue and weakness
• Itchy skin or rash

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lymphoma involves several steps:

• Physical Examination: To check for swollen lymph nodes or other signs.
• Biopsy: A sample of lymph node tissue is examined for cancerous cells.
• Blood Tests: To assess general health and detect abnormal levels of blood cells.
• Imaging Studies: Such as PET scans or CT scans to determine the extent of the disease.
• Cytogenetic Analysis: To identify genetic abnormalities associated with lymphoma.