It is not yet known what causes this type of cancer, but it is thought to begin with a genetic mutation in a white blood cell. The mutation instructs the cell to multiply quickly, allowing the diseased cells to proliferate. Over time, this process results in a buildup of diseased lymphocytes in the body. These cancerous cells eventually begin to spread throughout the body.
Lymphoma affects men and women of all ages, though it is most common in older adults. While it is rare in children, it is most commonly diagnosed in adults over 40. In the UK, there are approximately 75,000 people living with lymphoma, and around 14,000 new cases are diagnosed every year. While the most common symptom of lymphoma is a lump, it can also cause chronic itching or excessive sweating. Other symptoms of lymphoma include abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
The symptoms of lymphoma vary, depending on the type of cancer. While the majority of lymphomas are benign, they can lead to an enlarged lymph gland that may spread to distant organs. The lymphomas can be low-grade or high-grade, and some require specialized treatment to cure them. The first step in treatment is determining the type of lymphoma you have. There are four different stages of the disease.
Treatments for lymphoma typically include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and monoclonal antibodies. When surgery fails to cure lymphoma, a stem cell transplant is usually recommended. Radiation therapy is also often used in advanced lymphoma, particularly if the site is bloated or non-responding to chemotherapy. Some treatments may be combined with chemotherapy. If the lymphoma is detected early, radiation therapy may be sufficient.
Treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and the type of treatment chosen. It is essential to follow the advice of your doctor, as a cancerous cell can recur after remission. However, it is important to discuss all options with your doctor, and ask for as much treatment as you need. This will depend on the type and size of the lymphoma, the stage of its growth, and how aggressive it is.
Although there is no specific risk factor for lymphoma, people with a history of infection are at higher risk. A doctor will ask about your medical history and examine your armpits, chin, neck, groin, and neck for any signs of infection. The doctor will also examine the lymph nodes to determine if they have a lymphoma-like infection. Blood tests will detect the presence of lymphoma and biopsy may help distinguish between the different types.
Several factors are associated with a higher risk of developing lymphoma, including age. As people age, their immune system becomes weaker and is prone to mutations. These mutations activate genes that cause unchecked cell growth. People with immune deficiencies such as HIV and immunodeficiency are also at increased risk for lymphoid cancer. In addition, certain types of chemotherapy and immunotherapy are linked with a higher risk.
