LYMPHOMA CANCER
Lymphoma: Types, Causes, and Treatment
Lymphoma is a cancer of
the lymphatic system. It affects a type of white blood cells known as
lymphocytes. These help fight disease in the body. They play an important role
in the immune system.
As lymphoma is present
in the bloodstream, it can spread, or metastasize, to different parts of the
body.
Lymphoma can occur at
any age, but is one of the most common causes of cancer in
children and young adults aged 15 to 24 years. It is often treatable.
Tests
and Diagnosis:
There are no
routine screenings for lymphoma. If a person has persistent viral symptoms,
they should see a doctor.
The doctor will ask
about the patient's personal and family medical history, and try to rule out
other conditions.
They will also
carry out a physical examination, including an inspection of the abdomen and
chin, neck, groin, and armpits, where swellings may occur. The doctor will look
out for signs of infection near lymph nodes, since this can account for most
cases of swelling.
Treatment:
Treatment
depends on the type of lymphoma and the stage it has reached. Indolent, or
slow-growing lymphoma may need only watchful waiting and no treatment.
If treatment is
necessary, it can involve:
·
Biologic therapy: This is a drug treatment that stimulates the immune system
to attack the cancer cells by inserting living microorganisms into the body.
·
Antibody therapy: Synthetic antibodies are inserted into the bloodstream to
combat the cancer's antigens.
·
Chemotherapy: Aggressive drug treatment is used to kills cancer cells.
·
Radio immunotherapy: This delivers high-powered radioactive doses directly into the cancerous
B-cells and T-cells to destroy them.
·
Radiation therapy: This is used to focus on small areas of cancer.
·
Stem-cell transplantation: This can restore damaged bone marrow following high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
·
Steroids: These may be injected to treat lymphoma.
·
Surgery: This can be used to remove the spleen or other organs
after the lymphoma has spread.