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Lymphoma
Urgent
Lymphoma is a group of cancers that begin in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. Lymphoma can develop in lymph nodes or other tissues and is broadly classified into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms may include painless swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, itching, or symptoms related to an affected organ.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek prompt medical evaluation for persistent or enlarging lymph nodes, unexplained fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, severe fatigue, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for severe difficulty breathing, significant chest pressure, confusion, or sudden deterioration.
Symptoms
4
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Lymphoma is a group of cancers that begin in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. Lymphoma can develop in lymph nodes or other tissues and is broadly classified into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms may include painless swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, itching, or symptoms related to an affected organ.
Symptoms 4
Night Sweats
Persistent Hoarseness
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Weight Loss
Causes 1
Lymphoma develops when lymphocytes acquire genetic changes that cause them to grow or survive abnormally. The exact cause is often not known. Some infections, immune-system disorders, inherited susceptibility, and certain environmental or medical exposures can be associated with particular types of lymphoma. Different lymphoma subtypes have different biological features and risk factors.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk factors vary by lymphoma type and may include increasing age, a family history of lymphoma, weakened immune function, certain autoimmune diseases, and some infections. Previous treatment with certain medicines or radiation can be associated with increased risk in some circumstances. Having a risk factor does not mean that lymphoma will develop, and many people diagnosed with lymphoma have no identifiable risk factor.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Lymphoma is diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging, and usually a biopsy of an affected lymph node or tissue. The biopsy allows specialists to examine abnormal cells and determine the specific lymphoma type. Additional imaging and laboratory tests help determine how extensively the disease has spread and can guide treatment planning.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Most lymphomas cannot be reliably prevented because their causes are often unknown and may involve genetic or biological changes that cannot be controlled
Reducing exposure to known infectious risks, following appropriate medical care for immune-system disorders, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to harmful substances may reduce the risk of some specific types
Persistent unexplained lymph-node swelling or other concerning symptoms should be medically evaluated
Prevention Guidance
Most lymphomas cannot be reliably prevented because their causes are often unknown and may involve genetic or biological changes that cannot be controlled. Reducing exposure to known infectious risks, following appropriate medical care for immune-system disorders, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to harmful substances may reduce the risk of some specific types. Persistent unexplained lymph-node swelling or other concerning symptoms should be medically evaluated.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Lean proteins
Support recovery and immune function
Fresh fruits
Provide antioxidants
Vegetables
Support overall nutrition
Foods to Avoid
Highly processed foods
Low nutritional value
Alcohol
May affect recovery
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system.
Swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and weight loss may occur.
Biopsy and imaging tests are commonly used.
Many cases respond well to treatment.
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies are available.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.