What Is Lymphoma?
Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is a critical part of the body’s immune system. It occurs when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow uncontrollably and form tumors in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, or other organs.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Lymphoma symptoms can vary depending on the type, but common signs include swollen lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpits, or groin, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and itchy skin. Some may also experience chest pain or difficulty breathing if the lymph nodes in the chest are enlarged.1
Diagnosing lymphoma typically involves a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, imaging scans like CT or PET, and a biopsy of the affected lymph node or tissue.
Types of Lymphoma
There are two primary types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of an abnormal type of cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell, and it often follows a more predictable pattern of spread. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma has a variety of sub-types, all of which grow at different speeds.2
Treatment Options
The treatment of lymphoma depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Our dedicated team cancer care specialists will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Chemotherapy
Medications are used to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing and spreading. Chemotherapy can be given before or after surgery, or in cases where surgery is not an option.
Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation therapy is a common approach that can be used to target and destroy cancer cells. We utilize a linear accelerator, which is a new automated technology that enables us to deliver the most accurate treatments possible.
Immunotherapy
This treatment helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It can be administered directly into the bladder (intravesical therapy) or systemically.
1 Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Lymphoma symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20352638
2Penn Medicine. (n.d.). Types of lymphoma. Penn Medicine. https://www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/types-of-cancer/lymphoma/types-of-lymphoma
