Treatment of Lymphoma
What is lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is the network of tissues, vessels and organs that help the body fight infection. It’s classified as a blood cancer since it begins in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, found in the lymphatic system. There are two main types of lymphomas: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lymphomas can be categorized as aggressive (fast-growing) or indolent (slow-growing). Children, teenagers and adults can all develop lymphoma.
What are the risk factors for lymphoma?
Hodgkin lymphoma is most commonly found in people between the ages of 15 and 40, as well as people over the age of 55. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is most commonly found in people 60 years or older. There is no known way to prevent lymphoma; however, factors that can increase the risk of lymphoma include:
- A family history of lymphoma.
- A weakened immune system or an autoimmune condition.
- Some infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Epstein-Barr virus, human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), or hepatitis C.
How do I lower my risk for lymphoma?
Because lymphoma affects the immune system, the following can help prevent lymphoma:
- Limiting your risk of developing infections that can lead to lymphoma.
- Being physically active.
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Avoiding processed meats and sugary drinks.
- Avoiding tobacco.
- Avoiding known risk factors for HIV.
- Drinking alcohol in moderation.
How is lymphoma diagnosed?
Your health care provider will provide a physical exam to assess potential lymphoma symptoms. If laboratory tests indicate signs of lymphoma, your health care provider may suggest the one or more of the following tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC): This analyzes different types of white blood cells.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ERS): This detects inflammation because of lymphoma.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): This detects large amounts of cell growth or death.
- Liver and kidney function tests: These can assess how the organs are working and if lymphoma has affected organ function.
- Serum protein electrophoresis (SPSEP): This evaluates monoclonal proteins to see if any are abnormal.
- Imaging tests: Tests like CT or PET scans, can detect signs of cancer in parts of the body.
What are the signs of lymphoma?
Lymphoma symptoms often mimic the symptoms of other, less serious diseases. You should consider speaking with a healthcare provider if you notice changes in your body that do not go away. Common symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma include the following:
- Painless swelling of one or more lymph nodes in the neck.
- Persistent fatigue.
- Fever.
- Night sweats.
- Shortness of breath.
- Unexplained weight loss.
What are treatment options for lymphoma?
The Hematology Oncology Multidisciplinary Team at Karmanos Cancer Institute will design a treatment plan specific to your diagnosis. Treatments for lymphoma will vary based on the type and based on how fast it is growing. You and your cancer care team will work together to decide on the best, personalized treatment plan for you.
Early detection is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer.
Information about lymphoma, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.