Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It specifically affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, which normally help fight infection. In lymphoma, these lymphocytes grow abnormally and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors in lymph nodes and other parts of the body such as the spleen, bone marrow, and organs
. There are two main types of lymphoma:
- Hodgkin lymphoma : Characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in biopsy samples. It accounts for about 10% of lymphoma cases and has distinct treatment approaches
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma : Makes up about 90% of lymphoma cases and includes around 40 subtypes that vary widely in how fast they grow, spread, and respond to treatment
Common symptoms of lymphoma include painless swollen lymph nodes (often in the neck, armpit, or groin), fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, itching, and fatigue
. The exact causes of lymphoma are often unknown, but risk factors can include age, infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus), immune system deficiencies, certain medications, and exposure to some chemicals
. Diagnosis typically involves biopsy of lymph nodes, blood tests, and imaging to determine the extent of disease
. Treatment options depend on the lymphoma type and may include chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and sometimes surgery
. Lymphoma is one of the most common blood cancers, with increasing incidence worldwide. It can affect people of any age and has varying prognoses depending on subtype and stage
. In summary, lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes in the lymphatic system, with two main types—Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma—each requiring specific diagnosis and treatment strategies
