Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts from immune cells called lymphocytes. These cells normally protect your body from infections and disease. In lymphoma, lymphocytes become abnormal and grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that often involve lymph nodes but can also affect the spleen, bone marrow, and other organs throughout the body.
What are the symptoms of lymphoma?
Common symptoms of lymphoma include enlarged, painless lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, fatigue, persistent itching, and reduced appetite. Depending on where in the body the lymphoma develops, some people experience additional symptoms, such as coughing, shortness of breath, or abdominal pain.
What causes lymphoma?
The cause of lymphoma depends on the specific type. Generally, lymphoma develops when lymphocytes acquire genetic alterations (mutations) that cause them to grow uncontrollably. These genetic changes can result from different factors, including chronic infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C, or Helicobacter pylori), immune deficiency states (for example, HIV/AIDS or after organ transplantation), chronic autoimmune conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, and sometimes inherited genetic predispositions. Often, the precise cause in an individual is unknown.
What risk factors increase your chance of developing lymphoma?
Several risk factors can increase the chance of developing lymphoma. These include having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, medications used after organ transplants, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or celiac disease, chronic infections with certain viruses (like Epstein-Barr virus or hepatitis C), bacterial infections (such as Helicobacter pylori), prolonged exposure to radiation or specific chemicals, and having a family history of lymphoma.
What are the most common types of lymphoma?
The most common lymphoma subtypes seen in adults include:
The most common lymphoma subtypes seen in children include:
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Lymphoblastic lymphoma (both B-cell and T-cell types).
How is lymphoma classified?
Lymphomas are classified based on several factors, including the type of lymphocyte involved (such as B cells or T cells), how rapidly the lymphoma grows (aggressive or indolent), and specific microscopic features. Pathologists examine tissue samples under a microscope and use specialized tests, such as immunohistochemistry and molecular genetic tests, to identify the exact lymphoma subtype.
The two main groups of lymphoma are:
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Hodgkin lymphoma: This type of lymphoma is often identified by characteristic cells called Reed-Sternberg cells.
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Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL): A diverse group that includes many subtypes without Reed-Sternberg cells.
Correct classification is essential because treatment options and prognosis vary greatly depending on the lymphoma subtype.
How is the diagnosis of lymphoma made?
Lymphoma diagnosis typically involves a biopsy, where a doctor removes a small piece of tissue or a lymph node for examination. A pathologist then examines this tissue under the microscope to look for abnormal lymphocytes. Imaging tests such as CT scans, PET scans, or MRIs may also be used to determine how much the lymphoma has spread (its stage).
What lab tests are performed to make this diagnosis?
Several lab tests are used to confirm a lymphoma diagnosis and determine the specific subtype, including:
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Immunohistochemistry: Immunohistochemistry is a special test that detects proteins on lymphoma cells to confirm the type of lymphoma.
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Flow cytometry: Flow cytometry is a test used to analyze cells in detail to distinguish between various lymphoma subtypes.
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Molecular tests (such as PCR and FISH): These tests detect specific genetic changes or mutations important in diagnosing certain types of lymphoma and guiding treatment.
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Blood tests: Routine tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), help assess the patient’s general health and disease extent.
Your doctor will combine these results to determine the lymphoma’s specific subtype, stage, and best possible treatment options.
