What Are the Types of Lymphoma?

What Are the Types of Lymphoma?

Lymphomas fall into one of two major categories: Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL, previously called Hodgkin's disease) and all other lymphomas (non-Hodgkin's lymphomas or NHLs).

• These two types occur in the same places, may be associated with the same symptoms, and often have similar appearance on physical examination (for example, swollen lymph nodes). However, they are readily distinhttp://lymphomacancers.blogspot.com.tr/guishable via microscopic examination of a tissue biopsy sample because of their distinct appearance under the microscope and their cell surface markers.
• Hodgkin's disease develops from a specific abnormal B lymphocyte lineage. NHL may derive from either abnormal B or T cells and are distinguished by unique genetic markers.
• There are five subtypes of Hodgkin's disease and about 30 subtypes of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (not all experts agree on the numbers and names of these NHL subtypes).
• Because there are so many different subtypes of lymphoma, the classification of lymphomas is complicated (it includes both the microscopic appearance as well as genetic and molecular markers).
• Many of the NHL subtypes look similar, but they are functionally quite different and respond to different therapies with different probabilities of cure. For example, the subtype plasmablastic lymphoma is an aggressive cancer that arises in the oral cavity of HIV-infected patients, the follicular subtype is composed of abnormal B lymphocytes, while anaplastic subtype is comprised of abnormal T cells and cutaneous lymphomas localize abnormal T cells in the skin. As previously mentioned, there are over 30 subtypes of NHL with unusual names such as Mantle cell lymphoma, mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, hepatosplenic lymphoma and hereditary lymphomas. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests there at least 61 types of NHL; subtyping is still a work in progress. However, no matter how many subtypes experts suggest exist, there are too many to discuss in detail in this article. HL subtypes are microscopically distinct, and typing is based upon the microscopic differences as well as extent of disease.

Lymphoma is the most common type of blood cancer in the United States. It is the seventh most common cancer in adults and the third most common in children. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is far more common than Hodgkin's lymphoma.

• In the United States, about 72,580 new cases of NHL and 8,500 new cases of HL were expected to be diagnosed in 2016, and the overall incidence is increasing each year.
• About 20,150 deaths due to NHL were expected in 2016as well as 1,120 deaths due to HL, with the survival rate of all but the most advanced cases of HL greater than that of other lymphomas.
• Lymphoma can occur at any age, including childhood. Hodgkin's disease is most common in two age groups: young adults 16-34 years of age and in older people 55 years of age and older. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is more likely to occur in older people. Continue Reading
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Lymphoma Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Lymphoma Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphoma are similar to those of other diseases and afflictions. The most common symptom is a painless swelling in a lymph node (called lymphadenopathy). People often first go to the doctor because they think they have a cold or respiratory infection that will not go away. The neck or armpits are common places noticed first, but the swelling can occur in other parts of the body including the groin (that may cause swelling in the legs or ankles) or the abdomen (that can cause cramping and bloating). Some lymphoma patients notice no swelling at all while others may complain of night sweats, weight loss, chills, a lack of energy or itching. There is usually no pain involved, especially when the lymphoma is in the early stage of development.

Most people who have nonspecific complaints such as these will not have lymphoma. However, it is important that any person who has symptoms that persist see a doctor to confirm that no lymphoma or serious illness are present. The doctor will perform a complete physical examination and look for swollen lymph nodes under the chin, in the neck and tonsil area, on the shoulders and elbows, armpits, and in the groin. The doctor will also examine other parts of the body to see whether there is swelling or fluid in your chest or abdomen that could be caused by swollen lymph nodes.

You will be asked about pain and examined for any weakness or paralysis that could be an enlarged lymph node pressing against nerves or the spinal cord. Your abdomen will be examined to see whether any internal organs are enlarged, especially the spleen. If the doctor suspects lymphoma, he or she will likely order further tests including a biopsy, blood tests, x-rays and perhaps a bone marrow evaluation.

Symptom Alert Checklist

The symptoms of lymphoma are commonly seen in other, less serious illnesses, such as influenza or other viral infection. These symptoms are often overlooked, but in cases of less serious illnesses they would not last very long. With lymphoma, these symptoms persist over time and cannot be explained by an infection or another disease. The checklist below lists the most common symptoms of lymphoma.

Because of the common nature of these symptoms and because lymphoma symptoms do not appear in all cases, diagnosis is often problematic.

If you suspect that you, a family member, friend or loved one may have lymphoma, see your doctor or qualified medical professional as soon as possible. Early diagnosis makes an impact on treatment and outcome.

Initial Symptoms of Lymphoma

Painless swelling in the upper body lymph nodes, i.e., the neck, collarbone region, armpits or groin. (A swollen lymph node is normally NOT as painful as an infected lymph node, which is common and can be painful.) This checklist lists the most common symptoms of lymphoma:

Chills/temperature swings

Fevers (especially at night)

Unexplained weight loss

Loss of appetite

Unusual tiredness/lack of energy

Persistent coughing

Breathlessness

Persistent itch all over the body without an apparent cause or rash

General fatigue

Enlarged tonsils

Headache.

Symptoms of Advanced Lymphoma

More advanced lymphoma may present with the following symptoms:

In certain instances, people feel pain in the lymph nodes after drinking alcohol.

If the lymphoma involves lymphatic tissue within the abdomen, bowel or stomach, fluid may build up causing swelling near the intestines, potentially leading to sensations of abdominal pressure, pain, diarrhea and/or indigestion.

The enlarged lymph node sometimes causes other symptoms by pressing against a vein (causing swelling of an arm or leg), or against a nerve (causing pain, numbness, or tingling in an arm or leg).

Some people experience lower back pain that is unexplained. It is thought that this may be caused by expanding lymph nodes pressing on nerves.

As lymphomas progress and cancerous lymphocytes spread beyond the lymphatic system, the body loses its ability to fight infection. The generalized symptoms that develop may be confused with signs of influenza, tuberculosis, other infections such as infectious mononucleosis or other cancers.

Treatment for Lymphoma Cancer

Treatment for Lymphoma Cancer

Lymphoma is a type of cancer found in the immune system’s lymphatic cells. This type of cancer is present as solid lymphoid cells. It can be caused due to helicobacter pylori bacteria, epstein-barr virus and exposure to benzene and other hazardous solvents. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, recurring fevers, chest pain, night sweats, lower back pain, rashes and weight loss. It is diagnosed through CT scan, MRI scan, PET scan, X-rays, lymphangiogram, biopsy and blood tests. The type of treatment given lymphoma cancer depends on the type of lymphoma cancer the patient is suffering from. Hence, before discussing the methods of treatment for cancer of this type, let us first understand the types of lymphoma cancer.

There are two main types of lymphoma cancer in human beings. These are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is caused due to the Reed-Sternberg cells, while Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is caused due to B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes (types of white blood cells). All these cells are present in the immune system of the body. They fight against the cancerous cells, but in the end become infectious. These two types of lymphoma cancer can be treated using stem cell transplantation, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Radiation Therapy for Lymphoma Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is commonly given for the treatment for both types of lymphoma cancer. It is given when the cancerous cells have found in clusters in the human body. This method is generally avoided if the cancer spreads in the other parts of the body. In some cases, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer, radiation therapy is generally given in combination with chemotherapy.

Stem Cell Transplantation for Lymphoma Cancer Treatment

This method of treatment for lymphoma cancer is used when the patient’s body does not respond to any other treatment methods. It is given for both Hodgkin’s as well as Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. In case of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer it is given when the cancer is found to have recurred in the patient’s body.

Chemotherapy for Lymphoma Cancer Treatment

Chemotherapy is not the common form of treatment for lymphoma cancer. However, it can be given in combination with radiation therapy for the treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. In this method, combination of different drugs is given to kill the cancerous cells. These drugs can be administered either through intravenous injections or through pills.

Chemotherapy is not the common form of treatment for lymphoma cancer. However, it can be given in combination with radiation therapy for the treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. In this method, combination of different drugs is given to kill the cancerous cells. These drugs can be administered either through intravenous injections or through pills. In most of the cases, R CHOP chemotherapy regimen is given to the patients suffering from Hodgkin’s lymphoma, while R ESHAP chemotherapy regimen is given to the patients suffering from Non Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is advised to discuss about the regimen with your doctor to avoid further complications.

Immunotherapy for Lymphoma Cancer Treatment

This method is mostly used for the treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. It is administered through drugs, often called monoclonal antibodies that target the cells found on the surface of the lymphoma cells. These monoclonal antibodies react with the healthy cells of the immune system to boost up their energy to fight with the cancerous cells present inside the body. Some of these drugs commonly given by the oncologists are Bexxar and Zevalin.

Sometimes, patients suffering from Non Hodgkin’s lymphoma are also told to undergo MINE Chemotherapy. This type of chemotherapy is given only when the Non Hodgkin’s lymphoma is observed to be relapsed in the patient. Treatment for lymphoma cancer is effective, though aggressive in the advanced stages. If proper care is taken by the patient, he/she can enjoy a prolonged life after the prescribed lymphoma cancer treatment is completely over.

Lymphoma Cancer Video Tutorials

Lymphoma Cancer Video Tutorials

Whst is Lymphoma Cancer Diseases

Lymphoma is a group of blood cell tumors that develop from lymphatic cells. The name often refers to just the cancerous ones rather than all such tumorsSigns and symptoms may include enlarged lymph nodes, fever, drenching sweats, unintended weight loss, itching, and feeling tired The enlarged lymph nodes are usually painless. The sweats are most common at night.

There are dozens of subtypes of lymphomasThe two main categories of lymphomas are Hodgkin lymphomas (HL) and the non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). The World Health Organization (WHO) includes two other categories as types of lymphoma: multiple myeloma and immunoproliferative diseases. About 90% of lymphomas are non-Hodgkin lymphomas Lymphomas andleukemias are a part of the broader group of tumors of the hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues.

Risk factors for Hodgkin lymphoma include infection with Epstein–Barr virus and a history of the disease in the family.Risk factors for common types of non-Hodgkin lymphomas include autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS, infection with human T-lymphotropic virus,immunosuppressant medications, and some pesticides. Eating large amounts of red meat may also increase the risk.^]Diagnosis, if enlarged lymph nodes are present, is usually by lymph node biopsy. Blood, urine, and bone marrow testing may also be useful in the diagnosis. Medical imaging may then be done to determine if and where the cancer has spread.^]Lymphoma most often spreads to the lungs, liver, and/or brain.

Treatment may involve one or more of the following: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery. In some non-Hodgkin lymphomas, an increased amount of protein produced by the lymphoma cells causes the blood to become so thick thatplasmapheresis is performed to remove the protein. Watchful waiting may be appropriate for certain types. The outcome depends on the subtype with some being curable and treatment prolonging survival in most. The five-year survival rate in the United States for all Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes is 85%, while that for non-Hodgkin lymphomas is 69%.Worldwide, lymphomas developed in 566,000 people in 2012 and caused 305,000 deaths. They make up 3–4% of all cancers, making them as a group the seventh-most common form. In children, they are the third-most common cancer. They occur more often in the developed world than the developing world.