Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It develops when lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) grow uncontrollably and form tumors in lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Unlike leukemia, which mainly affects bone marrow and blood, lymphoma primarily involves lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and other lymphatic tissues.

Types of Lymphoma

• Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): Characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells; generally more predictable and highly treatable.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): A diverse group of lymphomas that vary in severity, behavior, and treatment response.

Common Symptoms

• Painless swelling of lymph nodes (neck, armpits, groin)
• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Fever, chills, and night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin
• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort if lymph nodes enlarge in the chest

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of swollen lymph nodes
• Blood tests
• Imaging (CT, PET-CT, MRI)
• Lymph node biopsy to confirm diagnosis and type
• Bone marrow biopsy in certain cases