Lymphoma is cancer that begins in infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. These cells are in the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and other parts of the body. When you have lymphoma, lymphocytes change and grow out of control.
There are two main types of lymphoma:
- Non-Hodgkin: Most people with lymphoma have this type.
- Hodgkin
Non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphoma each affect a different kind of lymphocyte. Every type of lymphoma grows at a different rate and responds differently to treatment.
Even though lymphoma is cancer, it is very treatable. Many cases can even be cured. Your doctor can help you find the right treatment for your type of the illness.
Lymphoma is different from leukemia. Each of these cancers starts in a different type of cell.
- Lymphoma starts in infection-fighting lymphocytes.
- Leukemia starts in blood-forming cells inside bone marrow.
Lymphoma is also not the same as lymphedema, which is a collection of fluid that forms under the skin when lymph nodes are damaged.
Causes
Scientists don’t know what causes lymphoma in most cases.
You might be more likely to get it if you:
- Are in your 60s or older
- Are male
- Have a weak immune system from HIV/AIDS, an organ transplant, or because you were born with an immune disease
- Have an immune system disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, or celiac disease
- Have been infected with a virus such as Epstein-Barr, hepatitis C, human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (HTLV-1), or human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8)
- Have a close relative who had lymphoma
- Were exposed to benzene or chemicals that kill bugs and weeds
- Were treated for Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the past
- Were treated for cancer with radiation
- Are overweight
Symptoms
Warning signs that you might have lymphoma include:
- Swollen glands (lymph nodes), often in the neck, armpit, or groin
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Itching
Many of these symptoms can also be warning signs of other illnesses. See your doctor to find out for sure if you have lymphoma.
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