What Is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of blood cell cancer characterized by the overproduction of white blood cells called lymphocytes that normally fight disease and infection. Healthy lymphocytes are critical to the immune system in order to combat infections. However, when lymphocytes mutate and grow uncontrollably, they can cause cancerous tumors in the lymph nodes and other organs.

How Common Is Lymphoma?

Around 90,000 people are diagnosed with lymphoma each year in the United States. The disease is slightly more prevalent in biological males, and though they can occur at any age, the majority of those who get the disease are over 60.

What Causes Lymphoma?

Scientists and researchers are uncertain about the exact causes of most cases of lymphoma. However, specific risk factors are often associated with the disease.

Infections

Certain viral or bacterial infections can increase your risk of developing lymphoma. These include HIV, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi sarcoma human immunodeficiency virus, and Helicobacter pylori, which attacks the stomach lining.

Weakened Immune System

If other medical conditions have compromised your immune system, you’re at higher risk of getting lymphoma. You may also be more susceptible if you’ve undergone an organ transplant and take immunosuppressants.

Genetics

Although lymphoma isn’t typically considered an inherited disease, your odds could increase if there’s a family history of lymphoma or other forms of cancer.

Age

In general, your risk for the disease is higher if you’re over 60. However, lymphoma can occur at any age, and specific types of lymphoma are more common in younger people.

Environmental Factors

You could be more predisposed to developing lymphoma if you’ve been exposed to particular carcinogens or radiation.

What Are the Symptoms of Lymphoma?

Lymphoma symptoms vary depending on the type, size, and location of tumors. Typical signs of lymphoma cancer include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and night sweats
• Fatigue
• Persistent cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting

Types of Lymphoma

There are various types of lymphoma, ranging from slow-growing to highly aggressive. Generally, lymphomas are classified into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Symptoms are similar in both types of lymphoma. However, Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms may also include inflammation, lymph node pain, and a rash.

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is uncommon but most commonly affects young people. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Hodgkin lymphoma into two categories:

• Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (cHL): This type of lymphoma accounts for about 95% of all Hodgkin lymphoma cases and is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells on biopsy of the tumor.
• Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma (NLPHL): This form of lymphoma is only prevalent in around 5% of Hodgkin lymphoma cases. Instead of Reed-Sternberg cells, this type of cancer features lymphocyte-predominant cells.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Of the two main classifications, non-Hodgkin lymphomas are much more common. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not a single disease, but rather is a general term composed of dozens of different subtypes of lymphoma, each characterized by unique biology, natural history and treatment.  Non-Hodgkin lymphomas can arise from either healthy B-lymphocytes (B-cells) or T-lymphocytes (T-cells).  There are numerous subtypes of B-cell and T-cell lymphomas.  Identifying the specific lymphoma subtype is critical in determining prognosis and optimal treatment.

Can I Prevent Getting Lymphoma?

You can’t completely prevent getting the disease as most cases occur randomly. However, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing lymphoma and other types of cancer by adhering to certain habits:

• Practice a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a well-balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and avoiding tobacco products can lower your risk of lymphoma and many other health conditions.
• Reduce the Risk of Infection: Having unprotected sex or using intravenous drugs puts you at a higher risk of HIV or other autoimmune diseases that compromise your immune system’s ability to fight cancers like lymphoma.

Lymphoma Treatment at Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute

The Jon and Jo Ann Hagler Center for Lymphoma provides comprehensive, compassionate care for patients diagnosed with all Non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphomas by integrating the best in clinical care, research, and support services.

View our team of lymphoma specialists or request an appointment today.

FAQs About Lymphoma

Are Lymphoma Symptoms in Women Different?

Lymphoma symptoms are similar in men and women.

What Are the First Signs of Lymphoma?

Early signs of lymphoma are usually painless swelling of lymph nodes.  Unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever occur less commonly.

Can Smoking Cause Lymphoma?

Smoking is linked to many health risks, including various forms of cancer. Studies indicate your risk of developing lymphoma could increase by up to 45%.