If you have been diagnosed with lymphatic cancer, you must know what it is, how it spreads and what treatment options are available. Although many patients go through the disease without any symptoms, it is important to understand how it spreads and how to recognize the signs. Once you have been diagnosed, you must seek treatment that is effective and will keep the cancer from spreading. Listed below are the symptoms, treatment options and possible causes of lymphatic cancer.
Lymphatic tissue consists of tubes that carry fluid throughout the body. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that play a central role in the immune system. They are located in the lymph nodes and lymphatic tissues, which help carry food and waste to the cells. The fluid also bathes the tissues, collecting waste products, bacteria, and damaged or cancer cells. This fluid drains through the lymph vessels. Once there, it flows through lymph glands, which filter the bacteria and cells.
When cells of the immune system become malignant, they begin to spread to different parts of the body. This process can lead to lymphoma, a type of cancer. Treatment options and outlook for lymphoma vary widely, so it is important to discuss the type of cancer with your doctor. Once you have determined the type of lymphoma you have, your doctor can help you choose the best course of treatment for you.
Lymphatic cancer has two main classifications: Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s. The difference between the two is that lymphomas are cancer of the lymph system. As a result, lymphoma symptoms can vary considerably as the cancer progresses. The symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on where the cancer is in the body. You may experience swelling in the lymph nodes, spleen and bone marrow, as well as a weakened immune system.
Lymphomas are classified according to their severity. Low-grade disorders are typically not life-threatening. The symptoms of lymphatic cancer are usually pain in the affected area from an enlarged lymph gland. The condition may progress slowly over several years, but some high-grade lymphomas can become aggressive and require specific treatment. The goal of treatment is to shrink the tumor, while preserving the quality of life. You must not neglect any symptoms of lymphoma.
The treatment options for lymphoma are determined by the stage of the disease, your age and the extent of the lymphoma. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for the best treatment options. It is also crucial to understand the risks and side effects of different treatments. Depending on your stage, lymphoma can relapse during treatment, so it is important to listen to your doctor. Your doctor will decide how to proceed after treatment.
A physical exam is essential to detect swollen lymph nodes and a lymphatic system. Imaging tests may be necessary to identify lymphoma in specific areas. Your doctor may also remove lymph nodes or bone marrow to determine the extent of the disease. Blood tests can also be used to detect a high level of white blood cells. In addition to these tests, your doctor will conduct a biopsy to determine whether lymphoma has spread to distant areas.
