Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymph system cells (lymphocytes) [

]. These cells of the immune system fight infections. These cells are in the following parts of your body: 

In lymphoma, lymphocytes can change and grow fast. 

Both types of this cancer involve different types of lymphocyte cells. 

 is one that affects the lymphatic system [

]. The lymphatic system is the germ-fighting system of your body's immune system. Here's what happens in this type of lymphoma:

 also causes the formation of malignant cancer cells in your lymph system. This type of lymphoma can be very aggressive. But there is a primary difference between the two types. 

The type of lymphocyte that cancer affects differs. In Hodgkin lymphoma, there are Reed Sternberg lymphocytes. A physician can identify them through a microscope. But these cells are not present in non-Hodgkin lymphoma [

Reed Sternberg cells have multiple nuclei and are large in size. Like most cancer cells, they also multiply uncontrollably. They gather in your lymph nodes, and their buildup can lead to tumor growth. These cells can hinder your body's ability to fight off infection. 

There are many tests and exams to diagnose lymphoma [

]. They help doctors understand the following: 

Understanding the type of lymphoma you may have is important. Only then can a doctor decide what treatment is right for you. The following are the most common diagnosis tools: 

 are extremely crucial to diagnose this disease. They can show what types of cells you have. Sometimes, there could be abnormal levels of normal cells. Other times, they may be lymphoma cells. Pathologists can perform these tests in the following ways: 

Additional blood tests can also show the functioning of the kidneys and liver. This helps doctors determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. 

 involves the doctor asking about the following: 

They may also inquire about any medical conditions you may have. It helps them determine whether you can tolerate treatments. 

. This is when professionals test your lymph nodes by removing a part of them. The procedure is simple since lymph nodes are close to the skin surface. 

 are also useful for examining lymphoma cells. This biopsy checks the cells in the bone marrow. A specialist takes a small sample through a thin needle and examines it for lymphoma. 

Last but not least, imaging tests determine how much cancer has spread. These tests include: 

This means that lymphoma is only present in one lymph node area. It could also mean that the cancer is present in only one organ, one part outside the lymph system. 

Some people are at a higher risk for some types of cancers. This is because of DNA mutations. If there is a family history of the following, it may increase your risk of lymphoma: 

But NHL gene changes aren't always genetic. They may occur during life. So, it isn't hereditary. But your chances of developing it are high if there's a family history. Some mutations can put people at high risk. But risks are not the same as causes. 

Lymphoma symptoms may not always be apparent. But, if you experience the following persistently, consult a doctor immediately. 

Symptoms of Lymphoma in Women vs. Symptoms of Lymphoma in Men*

Both men and women experience similar symptoms sometimes. Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom. 

When there’s an infection, the lymph nodes grow large and fight it. Then they get to their normal size again. With lymphoma, they may become larger but not as painful when fighting the infection. 

Low-grade fever can also be a symptom. Night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss are also common symptoms. But women experience the following if NHL is present in a reproductive organ:

The risk factors for lymphoma include [7]: 

There is no standard way to prevent lymphoma. You cannot change risk factors. But there are some ways you can lower the risk. Limit your chances of certain infections and keep your immune system healthy [

For example, HIV can increase the risk of NHL. So, avoid unprotected sex or intravenous drug use. Some lymphomas are a result of treating other cancers. They can emerge due to chemo or radiation therapy. Some also emerge due to the use of immune-suppressing drugs. 

Obesity can also increase the risk of NHL. So, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight and follow the right eating pattern. But, there needs to be more research to confirm the link between lymphoma and obesity. 

Lymphomas are highly curable. Their treatment depends on their type and intensity. But with timely intervention, you can cure them easily. In some cases, lymphoma can be indolent. In such cases, the doctor may not treat it because the prognosis is good in the long run. 

People with NHL have a 5-year survival rate of 74%. But the survival rates depend on various factors such as:

This therapy involves using high-energy rays to kill lymphoma cells. Some patients receive it through a large machine. This machine targets areas with cancer, such as:

It may take place regularly for weeks. Common side effects are: 

Traditionally, this therapy uses three or more drugs to treat the disease. Your doctor either injects them or administers them through tubes. Some of these are also available as pills. After evaluating your condition, the doctor will decide on a schedule. They may recommend chemotherapy every two to three weeks. But there are certain side effects. Some of them are: 

This therapy improves your body’s defenses. The drug rituximab inactivates cancer cells by attaching itself to their molecules. Common side effects are: 

Stem cell or bone marrow transplants provide patients with healthy stem cells. These cells grow into different parts of the blood. Healthcare professionals take stem cells from the patient’s marrow before radiation or chemotherapy. 

Immunotherapy uses the patient’s own immune cells. It aims to make them stronger so they can attack cancer cells. First, doctors remove them from the patient’s blood. Then, they modify them in a lab. Following this, they infuse them into the patient’s body. 

Recognizing signs earlier can significantly improve the prognosis of lymphoma. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the treatment course. While early-stage lymphoma isn't deadly, late-stage lymphoma can cause complications.

Lymphoma Symptoms

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