Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
سرطان الغدد الليمفاوية
Lymphoma is a cancer arising in the lymphatic system that supports immunity, and its hallmark is painless lymph-node enlargement. Its two main types are Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin, and many are treatable and curable with chemotherapy, radiation, and immune therapies.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that forms an essential part of the immune system. It affects the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs spread throughout the body.
Lymphoma is divided into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma, characterized by certain cells and considered one of the most curable cancers, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a broader and more diverse group that includes slow-growing and aggressive types. Treatment and the expected course differ greatly by the exact type.
The most common sign is painless enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin, which may be accompanied by general symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss (known as systemic symptoms). Reassuringly, treatment advances have made cure or long-term control rates high in many lymphoma types, especially with early detection.
Symptoms
- Painless lymph-node enlargement.
- Fever and heavy night sweats.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue and itchy skin.
- Shortness of breath or cough if the chest is involved.
Causes
- Mutations in lymphocytes leading to uncontrolled growth.
- Weakened immunity or certain viral infections.
- Genetic factors in some cases.
Risk factors
- A weakened immune system.
- Certain chronic viral infections.
- Older age (for some types).
- Exposure to certain chemicals.
Diagnosis
- A lymph-node biopsy, the basis of diagnosis.
- Blood tests and imaging (PET/CT) to determine the stage.
- Bone-marrow examination when needed.
Treatment
By type and stage
- Chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Immune and targeted therapies and monoclonal antibodies.
- Bone-marrow transplant in selected cases.
- Monitoring in some slow-growing types.
The plan is set by a hematology-oncology specialist. This content is educational and does not replace medical advice.
Complications
- Weakened immunity and infections.
- Spread to other organs.
- Treatment side effects that are managed medically.
Prevention
- There is no proven prevention.
- Managing chronic infections and supporting immunity.
- Early attention to persistent node enlargement.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for painless lymph-node enlargement lasting more than two weeks, or fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. Book an appointment with a hematologist or oncologist on ClinicsJo for evaluation.