Lymphoma: Types, Risk Factors, and Treatment

Study Notes

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the immune system cells known as lymphocytes. There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Both HL and NHL have seen significant improvements in survival rates over the past few decades, with more than 80% of HL patients having a chance of cure today. However, there remains a need for novel treatments for patients experiencing relapsed and refractory disease.

Differences between Hodgkin's and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Hodgkin's Lymphoma (HL)

Hodgkin's lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in the affected lymph nodes. It is further divided into two main types: classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (CHL) and nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin's lymphoma (NLPHL). The treatment for HL has evolved over time and now includes surgical resection, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies like checkpoint inhibitors.

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL)

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are a diverse group of cancers that originate from different immune system cell types, including B cells, T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, or histiocytes. NHL is classified into two major categories based on their indolent (slow-growing) or aggressive nature. Indolent NHLs typically have better prognosis, while aggressive NHLs may require more intensive treatments.

Risk Factors

The exact causes of lymphoma are not fully understood, but some risk factors include:

Weakened immune system due to HIV infection, transplantation, or long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs.
Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren syndrome.
Inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing certain types of lymphoma.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but common signs include:

Enlarged lymph nodes or masses in the neck, armpits, groin areas.
Fatigue, fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats.
Cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing if the lymphoma involves the lungs.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lymphoma often involves a combination of imaging scans (such as ultrasound, CT scan, PET/CT), blood tests, and biopsy of the affected tissue or lymph node. Advanced techniques like flow cytometry and molecular testing can help identify specific markers associated with lymphoma subtypes.

Treatment

Treatment for lymphoma depends on the stage, type, and characteristics of the cancer. Standard treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Newer personalized and targeted treatment approaches are also being developed to improve patient outcomes.

Description

Explore the differences between Hodgkin's and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, understand the risk factors associated with the disease, learn about common symptoms and diagnostic methods, and discover the various treatment options available including surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapies.