Lymphoma Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Types, Diagnosis & Treatment

Learn about lymphoma cancer, including its causes, risk factors, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatment options, and when to seek medical attention.

Lalit Mishra

12/14/20235 min read

Medical illustration showing lymphoma cancer affecting the lymphatic system

Lymphoma Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Types, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, an important part of the body's immune system. It occurs when lymphocytes—white blood cells that help the body fight infections—grow or multiply abnormally.

Lymphocytes are found in areas such as the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. Lymphoma can affect different parts of the body and is broadly classified into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Understanding the possible risk factors, warning signs, diagnosis, and treatment options can help people recognize concerning symptoms and seek appropriate medical care.

What Is Lymphoma Cancer?

Lymphoma is a cancer of lymphocytes. Normally, these immune cells grow, function, and die in a controlled manner. In lymphoma, abnormal lymphocytes can multiply uncontrollably and accumulate in lymph nodes or other tissues.

There are many different types of lymphoma, and their behavior and treatment can vary significantly. Some forms progress slowly, while others can develop rapidly and require prompt treatment.

Types of Lymphoma

The two major categories of lymphoma are:

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by specific abnormal cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells. It can develop in lymph nodes and may spread to other parts of the lymphatic system.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma includes a large group of cancers involving lymphocytes. These lymphomas can develop from different types of immune cells and may range from slow-growing to aggressive forms.

Causes and Risk Factors of Lymphoma

The exact cause of most cases of lymphoma is not known. However, several factors may increase the risk of developing the disease.

Potential risk factors include:

Age: The risk of certain types of lymphoma increases with age, although some forms are more common in younger people.
Family history and genetics: Having a close relative with lymphoma may increase the risk.
Certain infections: Some infections, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), are associated with an increased risk of certain lymphomas.
Weakened immune system: People with certain immune system disorders or those taking immune-suppressing medications may have a higher risk.
Autoimmune conditions: Some autoimmune diseases are associated with an increased risk of certain types of lymphoma.
Previous cancer treatment: Certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation treatments may increase the risk of developing lymphoma later in life.
Exposure to some chemicals: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals may be associated with lymphoma risk, although the relationship varies depending on the substance and level of exposure.

Having a risk factor does not mean that a person will develop lymphoma.

Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma symptoms can vary depending on the type of lymphoma, where it develops, and how advanced it is. Some people may have few or no noticeable symptoms during the early stages.

Common symptoms may include:

Painless swelling of lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpit, or groin
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent or recurring fever
Night sweats, particularly those that soak clothing or bedding
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Itchy skin
Shortness of breath or persistent cough
Abdominal swelling or discomfort
Frequent or recurring infections
Loss of appetite

Fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss are sometimes referred to as "B symptoms" in lymphoma.

These symptoms can also occur with many conditions that are not cancer. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

How Is Lymphoma Diagnosed?

Doctors may use several tests to determine whether lymphoma is present and identify its specific type.

Diagnosis may involve:

Physical Examination

A healthcare professional may check for enlarged lymph nodes and examine the abdomen for signs of an enlarged spleen or liver.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can provide information about blood cell counts and overall health and may help identify abnormalities that require further investigation.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests such as CT scans, PET scans, or MRI scans may be used to identify enlarged lymph nodes or determine whether the disease has spread to other parts of the body.

Lymph Node Biopsy

A biopsy is often essential for confirming lymphoma. During a biopsy, a sample of tissue is examined under a microscope and may undergo additional laboratory testing to determine the specific type of lymphoma.

Bone Marrow Testing

In some cases, doctors may recommend a bone marrow biopsy or other tests to determine whether lymphoma has affected the bone marrow.

Treatment for Lymphoma

Treatment depends on several factors, including the type of lymphoma, its stage, how quickly it is growing, the patient's overall health, and how the disease responds to treatment.

Possible treatment options include:

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines that destroy or control rapidly growing cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells in specific areas of the body. It may be recommended for certain types and stages of lymphoma.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Several types of immunotherapy may be used depending on the specific lymphoma.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted medicines focus on particular proteins, genes, or other features involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. These treatments may be used for certain types of lymphoma.

Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell transplant may be considered for some people with lymphoma, particularly when the disease has returned or has not responded adequately to initial treatment. The procedure replaces damaged or destroyed blood-forming cells with healthy stem cells.

Active Surveillance

Some slow-growing lymphomas may not require immediate treatment. In selected cases, doctors may recommend active surveillance, which involves regular monitoring and beginning treatment if the disease shows signs of progression or causes significant symptoms.

Can Lymphoma Be Prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent lymphoma because its exact cause is often unknown. However, maintaining overall health and reducing exposure to known risk factors where possible may be beneficial.

People with persistent symptoms or risk factors should discuss their concerns with a healthcare professional.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consider seeking medical evaluation if you experience:

A painless swollen lymph node that persists or continues to grow
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fever
Repeated or severe night sweats
Ongoing fatigue without an obvious cause
Persistent itching
Unexplained abdominal swelling
Persistent cough or difficulty breathing

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate lymphoma, but a medical evaluation can help identify the underlying cause.

Conclusion

Lymphoma is a group of cancers that affects lymphocytes within the lymphatic and immune systems. The disease includes many different types, with Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma being the two major categories.

Common warning signs can include swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, night sweats, fatigue, and itching. Diagnosis typically involves medical examination, blood tests, imaging, and often a lymph node biopsy.

Treatment varies according to the specific type and stage of lymphoma and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplantation, or active surveillance.

Early medical evaluation of persistent or unexplained symptoms can help ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. Advances in cancer research continue to improve treatment options and outcomes for many people living with lymphoma.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have symptoms or concerns about lymphoma or any other health condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and guidance.

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