A patient who develops cancerous cells within the lymphatic system, a component of the body's immune system, may be diagnosed with a form of cancer called lymphoma. Lymphoma can develop within any of the lymphatic tissues, including the tonsils, spleen, bone marrow or lymph nodes. In 2007, over 70,000 people in the United States were diagnosed with lymphoma, according to estimates provided by The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The symptoms of lymphoma can be difficult to detect but should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
The most common symptom experienced by patients with lymphoma is swelling of the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes are small glands located within the neck, groin and armpits that help filter pathogenic substances from the blood. When white blood cells, a type of lymphatic immune cell, accumulate within these nodes, affected patients can develop swollen lymph nodes. Typically, swollen lymph nodes are not painful, though certain patients can experience mild tenderness at the site of swelling. These symptoms may occur intermittently over several weeks or months in affected patients.
Itchy Skin
Patients with lymphoma can develop unusually itchy skin as a symptom of this form of cancer. Affected patients can develop red, irritated patches of skin across the body that appear dry or flaky. Frequently scratching the skin can increase a patient's risk of developing a skin infection. Patients who develop persistent or severe itchy skin symptoms should seek additional care from a medical professional.
Flu-like Symptoms
Cancerous cell growth throughout the lymphatic system can cause flu-like symptoms in affected patients. Flu-like lymphoma symptoms can include fever, chills, sweating, fatigue, coughing or headache. Some patients may also experience night sweats, which can lead to sleeping difficulties. These symptoms may persist for several weeks or months and can contribute to unexplained weight loss in some patients. Long-lasting flu-like symptoms can interfere with a patient's ability to remain alert and productive throughout the day. Patients who exhibit flu-like lymphoma symptoms should contact a doctor as these symptoms can also be signs of alternate medical problems.
Recurrent Infections
Lymphoma can interfere with the immune system's ability to fight off infection. As a result, patients with this form of cancer can experience recurrent infections. Frequent infections can cause additional lymphoma symptoms, including fever, body aches or fatigue. Patients who develop recurrent infections should speak with a doctor for further evaluation and care.
