Understanding Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s germ-fighting network including the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow.
Key Fact: There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Common Symptoms
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Significant and rapid weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
Night Sweats
Drenching sweats during the night that may soak through clothing.
Persistent Fatigue
A feeling of deep exhaustion that does not go away with rest.
Risk Factors
- Older age (for most NHL)
- Male sex
- Weakened immune system
- Infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis requires a biopsy of an enlarged lymph node or other affected tissue.
Lymph Node Biopsy
Bone Marrow Aspiration
PET/CT Scan
Complete Blood Count
Common Treatments
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Chemotherapy: The use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
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Immunotherapy: Targeted treatments that help your immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
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Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy beams to shrink tumors in specific areas of the body.