Overview of Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)

Lymphoma is a form of blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is a crucial part of the immune system responsible for fighting infections. It primarily affects lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). The disease is mainly categorized into two major types: Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, each differing in how the cancer behaves, spreads, and responds to treatment.

Types of Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)

1. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL): Characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells under the microscope.

2. Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL): More common and includes multiple subtypes.

3. B-cell Lymphomas: Includes diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma.

4. T-cell Lymphomas: Includes peripheral T-cell lymphoma and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

5. Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: A rare, aggressive T-cell subtype.

6. CNS Lymphoma: Affects the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms of Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s

Persistent, painless swelling of lymph nodes (often in neck, armpit, or groin)

Fever, chills and night sweats

Unexplained weight loss

Persistent fatigue or weakness

Itchy skin or skin rash (cutaneous lymphoma)

Coughing or shortness of breath

Abdominal pain or swelling

Recurrent infections

Causes of Systemic Lymphoma

Exact cause is unknown but several risk factors are associated

Genetic mutations in lymphocytes

Viral infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr Virus, HIV)

Weakened immune system (autoimmune disease or immunosuppressants)

Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation

Complications in Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)

Spread to other organs like liver, lungs or brain

Bone marrow involvement affecting blood cell production

Increased susceptibility to infections

Long-term effects of chemotherapy or radiation

Recurrence or transformation into a more aggressive form

Risk Factors of Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)

Age: HL is common in early adulthood; NHL increases with age

Gender: Some types more common in males

Family history of lymphoma

Immunosuppression due to medications or diseases

Exposure to toxic chemicals (e.g., pesticides, solvents)

History of viral infections such as HIV or Hepatitis C

Preventions of Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s & Non-Hodgkin’s)

No guaranteed way to prevent lymphoma

Avoid prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals

Maintain a strong immune system with healthy lifestyle habits

Early treatment of HIV and other chronic infections