Our bodies have an immune system that helps protect us from infection and disease. This system comprises a group of tissues, cells and organs that work together to keep us healthy. The lymphatic system is the region of the immune system that comprises a network of vessels that carry lymph fluid throughout the body. Lymph fluid is made up of white blood cells, which help to fight infection and disease. Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system. Many types of lymphoma range in severity from slow-growing and relatively easy to treat to fast-growing and more difficult to treat, such as:
1. B-cell lymphoma
This lymphoma is accompanied by the overproduction of B-cells, a type of white blood cell. They can come along at any age but are most often diagnosed in people over 60-years of age. This lymphoma is typically treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. When deciding on a treatment plan, your doctor will consider the type of B-cell cancer you have, your age, and overall health. Also, new treatments for this lymphoma are being developed all the time, so remember to ask your doctor about clinical trials that may be a good option for you.
2. T-cell lymphoma
This is a less common lymphoma than B-cell lymphomas. They develop from mature T-cells that have gone through the process of becoming cancerous. The most popular T-cell lymphoma is peripheral lymphoma, which forms in the lymph nodes and other tissues outside the bone marrow. This lymphoma can be difficult to treat because the cancerous cells often resist chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
3. Burkitt’s lymphoma
This lymphoma type is characterized by the overgrowth of abnormal cells in the lymphatic system. The abnormal cells typically accumulate in the jaw, neck, and abdomen. Burkitt’s lymphoma is aggressive and can spread rapidly. Sometimes, this cancer can spread to other body regions like the spinal cord and brain.
4. Follicular lymphoma
This lymphoma accounts for about 30 percent of all cases. It is slow-growing cancer that begins in the white blood cells known as B-lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies. Most cases of this lymphoma are diagnosed in people over 60, although the disease can occur at any age. Men are slightly more likely to develop follicular lymphoma than women.
The most common symptom of this lymphoma is enlarged lymph nodes, which are often painless. Other common symptoms include fever, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss. You might also experience itching or rashes on your skin.
5. Mantle cell lymphoma
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a cancer of the lymphocytes. It is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is a cancer that starts in the cells of the lymph system. Symptoms of MCL may include enlarged lymph nodes, weight loss, fatigue, and fever. When MCL starts in the lymph nodes, it is called nodal MCL. If it starts in the bone marrow, it is called extranodal MCL. The main difference between these two types is where they originate and how they spread. Nodal MCL is more common and tends to grow and spread more slowly than extranodal MCL.
There are different varieties of lymphoma, each with its own symptoms and treatment options. You should talk to your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms associated with lymphoma so that they can properly diagnose and treat you.
