Guide To The Different Types Of Lymphoma

Lymphomas are forms of cancer that start in the lymphocytes. These are the immune system cells responsible for battling pathogens. When these cells are cancerous, they can travel through the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. They often spread to the liver, lungs, bone marrow, and spleen. Common symptoms found in lymphomas are fatigue, fever, unexplained weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes. There are many forms of this cancer. Most fall into two major categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Living with lymphoma is quite difficult. That said, treatment is possible. Stem cell transplants and chemotherapy are the most popular by far. Patients are encouraged to seek out the best Hodgkin lymphoma treatment centers near them.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is the most common type and makes up 30 percent of cases. It has over 12 subtypes. Older people are the ones most likely to develop this kind of lymphoma. As the name suggests, DLBCL affects the B-cells, which are the cells that produce antibodies. This is a rapidly growing type of lymphoma and can spread in just a few weeks to lymph nodes and other body parts.

A cause has not been identified, which makes this cancer quite scary. It is clear, however, that a weakened immune system increases the risk of this lymphoma. Additionally, radiation and chemotherapy, though they’re used to treat this lymphoma, also increase the risk of developing it.

Follicular Lymphoma

The next most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma is follicular lymphoma. It accounts for 20 percent of all cases. This type affects the white blood cells. It is slow-growing, which is good news. Women are the most affected, and the median age is 60 years old, according to experts. Unfortunately, follicular lymphoma does not often show symptoms until it is stage 3 or 4. When symptoms do appear, the first is painless swelling in the lymph nodes. This is followed by shortness of breath, appetite loss, and fatigue.

When tumors in this type of lymphoma are localized and have not spread, chemotherapy and radiation are the best treatment options. Unfortunately, advanced follicular lymphoma is not curable. The average survival time for patients is 20 years.