Disease
Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)
Overview of Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is an important part of the immune system that helps fight infections.
It mainly affects lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). Lymphoma is classified into two major types:
- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL) – identified by Reed-Sternberg cells
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) – more common, with several subtypes
Types of Lymphoma
- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL): Presence of Reed-Sternberg cells under microscope
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL): More common, includes many subtypes
- B-cell Lymphomas: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma
- T-cell Lymphomas: Peripheral T-cell lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Rare and aggressive T-cell subtype
- CNS Lymphoma: Affects brain and spinal cord
Symptoms of Lymphoma
- Painless swelling of lymph nodes (neck, armpit, groin)
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Itchy skin or rash (cutaneous lymphoma)
- Coughing or shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Recurrent infections
Causes of Lymphoma
The exact cause of lymphoma is unknown, but risk factors include:
- Genetic mutations in lymphocytes
- Viral infections (Epstein-Barr Virus, HIV)
- Weakened immune system (autoimmune disease, immunosuppressants)
- Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation
Complications of Lymphoma
- Spread to organs like liver, lungs, or brain
- Bone marrow involvement affecting blood cell production
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Long-term side effects of chemotherapy or radiation
- Recurrence or transformation into aggressive forms
Risk Factors of Lymphoma
- Age: HL common in young adults; NHL increases with age
- Gender: Some types more common in males
- Family history of lymphoma
- Weakened immune system due to medications or diseases
- Exposure to toxic chemicals (pesticides, solvents)
- History of viral infections (HIV, Hepatitis C)
Prevention of Lymphoma
- No guaranteed way to prevent lymphoma
- Avoid long-term exposure to harmful chemicals
- Maintain a strong immune system with a healthy lifestyle
- Seek early treatment for HIV and chronic infections
Diagnosis of Lymphoma
- Physical Examination: Checking for swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.
- Blood Tests: To evaluate overall health and white blood cell counts.
- Lymph Node Biopsy: Gold standard to confirm the presence of lymphoma.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, PET scans, and MRI to determine spread and staging.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: To detect bone marrow involvement.
- Lumbar Puncture: Performed if central nervous system (CNS) involvement is suspected.
Treatments of Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Chemotherapy: Primary treatment for both Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- Radiation Therapy: Often used for localized or early-stage disease.
- Targeted Therapy: Monoclonal antibodies (e.g., Rituximab for B-cell lymphomas).
- Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells.
- Stem Cell Transplant: For relapsed or treatment-resistant cases.
- CAR-T Cell Therapy: Cutting-edge treatment for certain aggressive lymphomas.
- Watchful Waiting: For indolent, slow-growing lymphomas without major symptoms.
Prognosis of Lymphoma
- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Generally has a high cure rate, especially when diagnosed early.
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Prognosis depends on subtype, stage, and aggressiveness.
- Survival Rates: Improved significantly with early detection and modern therapies.
- Key Prognostic Factors: Age, stage of disease, overall health, and response to treatment.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised Consultation: One-on-one sessions with experienced lymphoma specialists.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Guidance with advanced diagnostic tests and pathology reviews.
- Treatment Planning: Access to the latest chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy options.
- Transplant & Cell Therapy: Support for stem cell transplant and CAR-T therapy, including international facilities.
- Comprehensive Care: 24/7 care coordination, second opinions, and follow-up assistance for global patients.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What type of lymphoma do I have?
- How advanced is my disease and what stage is it in?
- What treatment options are most effective for my case?
- What side effects should I expect and how can they be managed?
- Will hospitalization be required during my treatment?
- How long will the treatment take and what is the recovery period?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation
- Clear Explanations: Easy-to-understand details about diagnosis, staging, and test reports.
- Compassionate Communication: Honest yet empathetic discussion of treatment options.
- Side Effect Management: Guidance on preventing and handling treatment-related side effects.
- Transparent Prognosis: Realistic information about recovery chances and long-term outlook.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Advice on diet, exercise, and mental health support.
- Cost & Insurance Support: Help in understanding expenses, insurance, and financial planning.
- Follow-Up Plan: A structured schedule for regular checkups and ongoing care.