What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body’s immune system. The CMC Cancer Center is helping us better understand what lymphoma is, while delving into the functions of the lymphatic system to better understand this cancer and how it is identified and treated.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in maintaining your body’s fluid balance and defending against infections. Comprised of lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, tonsils, spleen, and the thymus, the lymphatic system acts as a transportation network for lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells. This system works in tandem with the circulatory system but lacks a pump like the heart, relying on muscle contractions and breathing for fluid movement.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer that originates in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell crucial for immune function. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both types involve the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, leading to the formation of tumors within the lymphatic system.
In lymphoma, the normal functioning of lymphocytes goes awry, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of tumors within the lymph nodes or other lymphatic organs. This abnormality compromises the system’s ability to filter and respond to infections effectively.
What are the Symptoms of Lymphoma?
Lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, often presents with subtle symptoms that can be easily mistaken for common ailments.
Symptoms may include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Night sweats
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Fever
While these signs can indicate various health issues, it is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms for an extended period. Timely diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
How Lymphoma is Diagnosed
Diagnosing lymphoma involves a thorough process that begins with a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your doctors may order blood tests to assess the presence of abnormal cells and perform imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs to identify any anomalies in your lymph nodes or organs. A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for further analysis, is often the definitive step in confirming a lymphoma diagnosis.
Complications Associated with Lymphoma
While the impact of lymphoma varies depending on the subtype and individual factors, it can lead to several complications. Lymphoma may suppress your body’s immune response, making you more susceptible to infections. Additionally, the abnormal growth of lymphocytes can obstruct the normal function of organs, potentially causing complications such as organ failure. Timely intervention and comprehensive care are essential in managing these potential complications effectively.
Treatment Options for Lymphoma
Treatment for lymphoma is highly individualized and depends on factors such as the type and stage of your cancer, as well as your overall health. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. In some cases, stem cell transplantation may be recommended to replace damaged bone marrow with healthy cells. There is also the possibility that you could be eligible for a variety of clinical trials that offer innovative treatment approaches for individuals with refractory or relapsed lymphoma, providing hope for improved outcomes.
Your Lymphoma Prognosis
You are probably wondering how lymphoma will affect your future. Your prognosis is unique to you and depends on a variety of factors including, but not limited to: the type of lymphoma you have, what treatments you can have, and other things like your general fitness and overall health.
Survival rates are statistics that show how many people in a large group survive lymphoma for a certain amount of time. These are only averages that cannot tell what will happen to you personally, so many people find them unhelpful to focus on.
Ask your medical team about your prognosis if you want to know, because everyone is different. Your medical team knows you and your individual situation. Remember, your prognosis can also change over time, for example, if you respond well to your individualized treatment plan.
It can be difficult to understand or think about things like your prognosis, treatment, and other day-to-day struggles you may have while also battling lymphoma. That’s why we offer an All Cancers Support Group and other services and resources to help talk you through it, offer support, provide guidance, or simply just listen.
Compassionate Cancer Care When You Need It Most
At CMC Cancer Center, you don’t have to face your diagnosis alone. We see the journey you’re on and find a way forward together. We surround you with the brightest cancer experts and compassionate cancer navigators who provide individual support and help coordinate every step of your care. Let us know what’s on your mind and what you need and we will find the resources and the right people for you to talk with.
