Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Lymphoma (lymphatic cancer) is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system. It happens when lymphocytes (a type of immune cell) grow and multiply abnormally, which can lead to swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

Lymphocytes are normally made and stored throughout the lymphatic system, which includes organs like the thymus and spleen. This system also includes lymph nodes and lymph vessels that help filter fluids and remove waste and impurities from the body.

If lymphatic cancer is suspected, evaluation by a hematologist or oncologist is important. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease but usually involves chemotherapy, sometimes combined with radiation therapy and/or immunotherapy.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of lymphoma include:

• Swollen lymph nodes;

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C);

• Night sweats;

• Loss of appetite;

• Unexplained weight loss;

• Itchy skin;

• Fatigue;

• General malaise.

Swollen lymph nodes most often occur in areas such as the neck, armpits, or groin. They are usually not painful, but they can feel uncomfortable for some people, especially after drinking alcohol.

Confirming a diagnosis

Lymphoma is typically diagnosed by a hematologist or oncologist based on symptoms and the results of a biopsy of an enlarged lymph node or another affected area.

To confirm the diagnosis and check if other areas are affected, doctors often order additional imaging tests like CT, PET, or MRI scans. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may also be needed to evaluate bone marrow involvement.

Different types

Lymphoma can be classified into two categories:

1. Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of lymphoma that tends to follow a more predictable pattern, often starting in lymph nodes in the upper part of the body and spreading from there. It is more common in people around 20 or 60 years of age.

2. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma does not follow a single pattern of lymph node involvement and can begin in many different parts of the body. It is the more common type and most often affects older adults, usually people over age 55.

Possible causes

The exact cause of lymphoma is not fully known. However, it is more common in people with certain medical conditions such as HIV and rheumatoid arthritis.

It is also associated with some infections, including Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and Epstein-Barr virus, and with exposure to herbicides or pesticides. A family history of lymphoma may also increase risk.

Because lymphoma can cause swollen lymph nodes, it can sometimes be confused with lymph node swelling from skin or respiratory infections, such as the flu or a common cold. For this reason, proper evaluation is important.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the type of lymphoma identified on the biopsy and how severe or advanced it is. Chemotherapy is typically the main treatment, often combined with other therapies under the guidance of a hematologist or oncologist. 

In addition to chemotherapy, other treatment options for lymphoma include:

• Radiation therapy, which uses radiation to destroy cancer cells;

• Immunotherapy, which helps the immune system attack cancer cells;

• Targeted therapy, which uses medications aimed at cancer cells with specific genetic changes;

• Gene therapy, including treatments such as CAR T-cell therapy;

• Bone marrow transplant, in some cases.

During chemotherapy, side effects can occur from the medications used. These may include weight loss, gastrointestinal changes, and hair loss, which is a common side effect.

Is lymphoma curable?

Many cases of lymphoma can be cured, even at more advanced stages, depending on the specific subtype. Outcomes improve with early diagnosis, limited symptoms, and prompt treatment initiation.

What is the life expectancy for people with lymphoma?

Life expectancy after a lymphoma diagnosis varies based on the lymphoma type, disease severity, and treatment response.

Even after successful treatment, lymphoma can recur in some cases, though many people remain disease-free for years.

Ongoing follow-up care with a hematologist or oncologist is therefore essential.