Lymphoma is a general term for cancers that develop in the lymphatic system (the tissues and organs that produce, store, and carry white blood cells).
There are 40 different subtypes of lymphoma.
Lymphomas that do not start in white blood cells are called Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This kind of lymphoma is seen in all age groups, but is more common in people over the age of 50. They may start in the bone marrow, spleen, thymus or lymph nodes and spread to other parts of the body.
The lymphatic system carries disease-fighting white blood cells throughout the body. It includes:
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Types
- B-cell, which makes up 85% of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases
- T-cell
- NK-cell
Lymphoma is more common in people living in a farming community. Some studies suggest that certain herbicides and pesticides may play a part in lymphoma, but this has not been proven.
Symptoms
- fevers
- heavy night sweat
- tiredness
- severe itchiness
- reddened patches on the skin
- nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- coughing or shortness of breath
- headaches, concentration problems, personality changes
- painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, groin or underarm
Treatment
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Proton therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Stem cell transplantation
- Radioimmunotherapy pairs a monoclonal antibody to a radioactive substance to target cancer cells.
- watchful waiting
I have learnt that certain cancer treatment could leave patients infertile. Therefore, it is important to explore fertility-preserving options before lymphoma treatments.
I know a friend of mine who has been diagnosed with lymphoma. After 6 cycles of chemotherapy and surgery to remove the affected lymph node, her cancer is still in remission.
Someone said, "When life seems to beat you down, dare to fight back."
Support for cancer patients comes in all shapes and sizes, but remember the good vibes, encouragement, and positivity can go too far!
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