T-cell lymphomas, categorized as non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, are a group of cancers that affect the T lymphocytes---types of white blood cells that function in cell-mediated immunity. Stem cells in the bone marrow produce T lymphocytes which then travel to the thymus to mature. Although there are many types of T-cell lymphomas, they only account for approximately 15 percent of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Symptoms of T-cell lymphomas vary depending on the cancer type, location and severity.
Difficulty Breathing
Precursor T-lymphoblastic lymphoma affects immature T-cells, so it often begins in the thymus, a small organ located in the upper chest cavity under the breastbone. The lymphoma cells develop into a large tumor in the mediastinum, the area behind the breastbone around the heart. A large tumor in this area can press on the windpipe, causing difficulty breathing.
Swelling
Large precursor T-lymphoblastic lymphoma tumors can apply pressure to the superior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood back to the heart from the head and arms. The pressure interferes with the flow of blood, leading to swelling of the face and arms.
Fever
Many types of T-cell lymphomas begin in the lymph nodes, small gland-like structures that perform important immune system functions. The lymph nodes, part of the lymphatic system, contain concentrated amounts of B and T lymphocytes, and work as the primary filters to capture foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.
When lymphocytes mutate and grow out of control, resulting in lymphoma, the lymph nodes become enlarged. This triggers the body's immune system to help fight off the abnormal cells, resulting in fever.
Weight Loss
Enteropathy type T-cell lymphoma, also called gluten-sensitive enteropathy, occurs in patients sensitive to gluten---the protein found in wheat, rye and barely products. Enteropathy type T-cell lymphoma affects the lymphocytes in the digestive tract invading the walls of the intestines. This can interfere with digestion and the absorption of nutrients, leading to weight loss.
Rashes
Several types of T-cell lymphomas affect the skin. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, also known as mycosis fungoides, accounts for 2 to 3 percent of all non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cases, reports the Lymphoma Research Foundation. This type of T-cell lymphoma produces patchy, scaly red lesions on the skin that may feel itchy. These lesions can progress to solid raised tumors which can grow larger over time.
Sezary syndrome, another type of T-cell lymphoma, causes an itchy, red, widespread rash that appears similar to sunburn. Angioimmunoblastic lymphoma, a rapidly growing form of T-cell lymphoma, typically affects the T lymphocytes in the lymph nodes, causing several symptoms, including skin rashes.
