ABOUT THE DISEASE
Lymphoma is a type of cancer of lymph tissue that develops in the lymph system, i.e lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, liver, etc. The cells in the lymphatic system (lymphocytes) grow abnormally and may spread beyond the organ of origin. It is mainly of two types - Hodgkin`s and Non-Hodgkin`s lymphoma. Latter is more common.
It is important to differentiate between the two types as the treatment is different. Examining the cancer cells under the microscope helps in this differentiation (For eg. typical Reed Sternberg cells found in classical Hodgkin`s lymphoma)
CAUSES
Past infection with Epstein Barr virus can be a causative factor.
AIDS patients are at greater risk of developing the disease.
SYMPTOMS
DIAGNOSIS
- Medical history- Physical examination- Lymph node biopsy- Bone marrow biopsy- Complete blood count- CT/PET scan
TREATMENT METHODS
The treatment depends on - Age of patient, Stage of disease, Type of lymphoma, Size of tumor, etc.
The options include:
- Chemotherapy- Radiotherapy- Stem cell transplant / Bone marrow transplant
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