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Information about lymphoma and how to treat it
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Some lymphomas grow quickly and require urgent treatment.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lymphoma may include:
- fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss
- swelling of lymph nodes (neck, armpit or groin).
When to see a doctor
Seek medical advice if you notice:
- a lump that does not go away
- persistent fevers or night sweats
- rapidly growing lymph nodes.
Lymphoma develops when certain white blood cells (lymphocytes) grow abnormally. In most cases, the cause is not clear.
Risk may be higher in people with immune system disorders or certain infections.
Diagnosis usually involves:
- a biopsy of a lymph node
- blood tests and sometimes a bone marrow biopsy
- imaging such as a CT or PET scan.
Treatment depends on the type and stage of lymphoma and may include:
- chemotherapy
- clinical trials of new treatments
- immunotherapy
- radiotherapy
- targeted treatments.