Lymphoma is a cancer that originates in lymph nodes and appears as an enlargement of the node (a tumor). Lymphoid leukemias, which also originate in lymphocytes typically involve only circulating blood and the bone marrow ,where blood cells are generated in a process termed haematopoesis. Lymphomas are a part of a broad group of diseases called hematological neoplasms.

The lymphatic system is part of the body's immune defence system. Its job is to help fight diseases and infection. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, a colorless watery fluid that contains infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes. Along this network of vessels are groups of small, bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes. Clusters of lymph nodes are found in the underarms, groin, neck, chest, and abdomen.

Types of Lymphoma

Hodgkin's Lymphoma Cancer - This is the most common type of lymphoma is. It has special characteristics that distinguish it from the others. Often it is identified by the presence of a unique cell, called the Reed-Sternberg cell, in lymphatic tissue that has been surgically removed for biopsy.

Hodgkin's disease tends to follow a more predictable pattern of spread, and its spread is generally more limited than that of the non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. By contrast, the non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are more likely to begin in extranodal sites (organs other than the lymph nodes, like the liver and bones).

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Cancer - In this case the cells in the lymphatic system grow abnormally. They divide too rapidly and grow without any order. Too much tissue is formed, and tumors begin to grow. The cancer cells also can spread to other organs.

There are about ten different types of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Some types spread more quickly than others. The type is determined by how the cells look under a microscope (histology). The histologies are grouped together, based on how quickly they spread, into low-grade, intermediate-grade, or high-grade lymphomas.

Symptoms of Lymphoma Cancer

The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas is a painless swelling in the lymph nodes of the neck, underarm, or groin. Other symptoms may include fevers, night sweats, tiredness, weight loss, itching, and reddened patches on the skin. Sometimes there is nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

As lymphomas progress, the body is less able to fight infection. These symptoms are not sure signs of cancer, however. They also may be caused by many common illnesses, such as the flu or other infections. But it is important to see a doctor if any of these symptoms lasts longer than 2 weeks.

Diagnosis Of Lymphoma Cancer

Following tests are usually required

• Blood tests, including complete blood count (CBC), liver and kidney function test
• Bone marrow biopsy or Fine Needle Cytology Aspiration
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to check for Cancer spread to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
• Ultrasound
• Bone scan or gallium scan (when a radioactive material is injected into the bloodstream to look for evidence of inflammation or bone tumors)
• PET Scan - Positron emission tomography scan

Lymphoma Cancer Treatment

Treatment planning takes into account the type of lymphoma Cancer , the stage of disease, whether it is likely to grow slowly or rapidly, and the general health and age of the patient. Common treatment options for several types are as follows:

Low Grade

Low-grade lymphomas include small lymphocytic, follicular small cleaved, and follicular mixed cell. For low-grade lymphomas, which usually grow very slowly and cause few symptoms, the doctor may wait until the disease shows signs of spreading before starting treatment.

Intermediate and High Grades

Intermediate- and high-grade lymphomas are curable. Treatment for intermediate- or high-grade lymphomas usually involves chemotherapy, with or without radiation therapy. In addition, surgery may be needed to remove a large tumor.

Combination chemotherapy is almost always necessary for successful treatment. Chemotherapy alone, or abbreviated chemotherapy and radiation, cure 70 to 80 percent of patients with limited (Stages I and II) intermediate-grade lymphoma. Advanced (Stages III and IV) disease can be eradicated in about 50 percent of patients.

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