Blood Cancer (Lymphoma)

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells. Also called lymphocytes, these cells are part of the immune system. Abnormality in the lymphocytes causes them to grow uncontrollably, which leads to the development of tumours. As a result, these cells are no longer able to perform their actual role of protecting the body from disease and infection.

Lymph nodes are located in various parts of the body, most lymph nodes are in the abdomen, groin, pelvis, chest, underarms and neck. Lymphoma can develop anywhere. Tumours can spread throughout the body and affect the organs leading to the development of other forms of cancer, such as leukemia.

What is are the types of Lymphoma?

The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. 

The main types of lymphoma are:

• Hodgkin's lymphoma
  This form of lymphoma has an abnormal cell called Reed-Sternberg cell present
   
• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
  This form of lymphoma does not have the Reed-Sternberg cell present
   

What is are the symptoms of Lymphoma?

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Itchy skin
• Night sweats
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin
• Weight loss
   

What are the risk factors of Lymphoma?

Some factors that can increase your risk of Lymphoma include:

• Age: Lymphoma is more common in teenagers and young adults, although some types of lymphoma are prominent in people over 55.
• Family history: If someone in your family has lymphoma, your risk of developing the disease increases
• Specific infections: Infections such as the Epstein-Barr virus, Helicobactor Pylori and HIV may increase your risk of Lymphoma.
• Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system due to medication or a medical condition may increase your risk of Lymphoma. 

How is Lymphoma diagnosed?

Biopsy
A biopsy is done to check the lymph nodes and bone marrow for signs of cancer.


Blood Test
A complete blood count blood test will be done to check for white
blood cell increase which could be a sign of cancer. 

Imaging Tests
Imaging tests are done with ultrasound or CT scan to check the lymph nodes for abnormalities.


Physical Examination
A needle biopsy is done to check the lymph nodes for signs of cancer.