What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the cells that are part of the body’s immune system and often begins in lymph nodes throughout different parts of the body. There are five different types:
- Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): begins in white blood cells called lymphocytes, usually B lymphocytes, which make proteins called antibodies to help protect the body from germs.
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): begins in white blood cells called lymphocytes but differs from HL and is much more common.
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children: this cancer is rare in children but can occur.
- Lymphoma of the Skin: rare lymphomas that begin in the skin and are referred to as cutaneous lymphomas.
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia: a type of NHL that makes large amounts of an abnormal protein called macroglobulin.
What Are Common Symptoms of Lymphoma?
Lymphomas can develop in many places in the body, and symptoms depend on where the lymphoma is located. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Chills
- Weight loss
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Swollen abdomen (belly)
- Feeling full after only a small amount of food
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath or cough
- Severe or frequent infections
- Easy bruising or bleeding
How Is Lymphoma Diagnosed?
There are no screening tests to detect lymphoma in early stages. The best way to find lymphoma early is to look out for possible symptoms — specifically enlarged lymph nodes that do not cause pain.
Most people who have lymphoma see a doctor because of a lump that won’t go away or because they do not feel well. Diagnosis begins with a medical exam of the lymph nodes and other areas that may be affected, including the spleen and liver. Blood tests may also be ordered to look for signs of infection or other problems.
What Is Follicular Lymphoma?
Follicular lymphoma is a slow-growing form of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) that accounts for 20–30% of NHL cases. It arises from B-lymphocytes, making it a B-cell lymphoma. This type of lymphoma tends not to occur in younger people; the average age of patients is 60.
Symptoms include enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, underarms, abdomen, or groin, as well as fatigue, shortness of breath, night sweats, and weight loss. Many patients have no symptoms at diagnosis. While follicular lymphoma is not curable, it often responds well to treatment, and patients can live many years managing it like a chronic condition.
What Are Treatments for Lymphoma?
Lymphoma treatments depend on several factors, including the type of lymphoma the patient has. The most common treatments are chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Some patients receive immunotherapy or stem cell transplant, especially when other standard treatments have not worked. Targeted therapies and, in rare cases, surgery may also be options.
What Are Other Treatment Options for Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is often not curable and may never go away completely for many patients. However, they can live many years managing symptoms. Clinical trials are an important option, providing access to new treatments and technologies — such as clinical trials for follicular lymphoma aimed at slowing disease progression. Find clinical trials you may be eligible for here.
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