1. What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is the most common type of blood cancer and involves lymphocytes. These are the white blood cells which are a part of the lymphatic system, as well as the blood system. The lymphatic system, also known as the immune system, helps to fight infections and tumors. There are two types of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
2. Hodgkin Lymphoma Is Less Likely
Hodgkin lymphomas are the less common type of blood cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, there are 7,000 new cases diagnosed each year. There are 1,400 deaths from Hodgkin lymphomas every year, as well. There is a greater chance of survival with Hodgkin lymphomas, if caught in the earlier stages, than any other lymphomas. Abnormal B lymphocytes lineage is the cause of Hodgkin lymphomas. B Lymphocytes are the cells responsible for antibody production. If a disease or foreign matter is detected, the B lymphocytes react by producing antibodies to fight the infection.
3. The More Common Non-Hodgkin
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the more common type of lymphoma. It is most common in older adults and is referred to as NHL. This type of lymphoma is present in the T lymphocytes. T lymphocytes attack diseases and foreign substances directly. The National Cancer Institute estimates that in 2008, there will be more than 66,000 new cases of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosed, which will result in approximately 19,000 deaths in the same year.
4. Four Stages of Lymphoma
There are four stages of lymphoma. Stage one is the early phase of the disease, where the cancer is confined to one lymph node or one region of the body. Stage two is the locally advanced stage, where the cancer is in two or more lymph nodes or regions and is either above or below the diaphragm. Advance disease or stage three is when the cancer is above and below the diaphragm. Widespread disease, stage four, is where the lymphoma has spread to other organs in the body.
5. Be Aware of the Symptoms
There are general symptoms of lymphomas, which include unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats and severe itchiness. Different lymphomas, however, can display different, unique symptoms. You can see skin lymphomas, which are usually non-Hodgkin lymphomas. They are red or purple lumps under the skin. Brain lymphomas, which are also most likely non-Hodgkin lymphomas, can cause headaches, personality changes, trouble thinking and sometimes seizures. If you experience these or any other unusual symptoms, contact your primary health care provider.
