What Is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is any cancer of the lymphatic system; this is the system that carries white blood cells and lymph fluid through the body. The main function of the lymph system is to transport white blood cells around the body in order to fight infections. As with all types of cancer, lymphoma occurs when the cells in the body grow uncontrollably; often causing tumours and the majority of lymphomas are made up of white blood cells called T or B cells.

Lymphoma cells usually form solid tumours that appear in the lymph system or in organs but are sometimes found in the blood. These tumours can often be felt as small lumps or swollen glands nearly anywhere in the body.

The Lymphatic System:

The lymphatic system acts as a filter to remove bacteria, viruses and impurities from our body. The system is made up of the spleen, lymph nodes and a number of tubes that extend throughout the body, much like blood vessels. If you feel a swollen gland, it is actually a lymph node and these act as emergency centres that activate our immune system to defend against and attack foreign bodies.

Types of Lymphoma:

Hodgkin's lymphoma is a specific form of lymphoma and can also be known as Hodgkin's disease. These types of lymphoma have specific traits that differ from other types. As opposed to other types of lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma spreads predictably from one node to the next and also tends to respond differently to treatments.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma includes numerous different cancers of the lymphatic system. These cancers are identified by what type of cells they are made up of or where they appear in the body. The majority of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas occur in the lymph nodes or lymphatic organs. As lymphatic tissues and cells can be found all around the body, lymphomas can form in the nervous system, stomach, liver and other organs.

Causes:

While the cause of most lymphomas is not known and likely caused by mutations in genes known as oncogenes, there are certain things that can increase the risk of developing this form of cancer:

Exposure to certain chemicals like solvents, pesticides and things containing nitratesTaking drugs can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of lymphomaAutoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritisGastritis and stomach ulcers caused by a bacteria called H. PyeloriA weak immune system, AIDS sufferers are far more likely to get a lymphoma

Health information and advice from mutual society, Benenden Healthcare

Original article