Lymphocytic cancer or lymphoma is a disease characterized by abnormal proliferation of lymphocytes, which are cells responsible for the defense of the body. Normally, lymphocytes are produced and stored in the lymphatic system, which consists of organs, such as the thymus and spleen, and a network of vessels responsible for transporting the lymph from tissues to the blood vessels, which are called lymph nodes or gills.
In the case of lymphoma, the lymphocytes undergo changes and, therefore, begin to multiply very fast or cease to be destroyed, accumulating and leading to the formation of tumors that can compromise the lymphatic system and cause symptoms such as swelling of the lymph nodes present in the neck or throat, for example, tiredness and general malaise.
The diagnosis is made through laboratory tests, such as the hemogram, in which lymphocytosis is verified, in addition to tissue biopsy, which is done to identify the presence of altered cells and confirm the disease so that treatment can begin. In addition, your doctor may order ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, for example, to see which regions are affected and the progression of lymphoma.
Possible causes
Although the alteration that occurs in lymphocytes is known to have the development of lymphatic cancer, it is still unknown exactly why it happens. Most cases of lymphatic cancer occur spontaneously and for no apparent reason. However, some factors can influence the onset of lymphatic cancer, such as family history or autoimmune diseases, which increase the risk of developing this type of cancer.
Symptoms of Lymphatic Cancer
The main symptom of lymphatic cancer is the swelling of the throat, armpits, abdomen or groin. Other symptoms are:
- Tiredness;
- General malaise;
- Fever;
- Loss of appetite;
- Loss of weight without apparent cause.
The symptoms associated with lymphatic cancer are the same as in other situations, so it is important to seek the help of a general practitioner to have tests that can help with diagnosis and treatment. See what are the other signs of this type of cancer.
How is the treatment done?
The treatment of lymphatic cancer is done according to the degree of impairment of the lymphatic system and evolution of the disease, ie if the altered lymphocytes are already found in other parts of the body. Thus, the treatment can be done through chemotherapy, radiation therapy or both.
During treatment it is normal for the person to suffer from some adverse effects caused by the medication used, such as weight loss, gastrointestinal disorders and hair loss, which is the most common effect. Learn more about treating lymphatic cancer.
Lymphatic cancer is cured when diagnosed early on, and treatment is started shortly to prevent the spread of altered cells throughout the body.
Main risk factors
Some risk factors that are linked to the development of lymphatic cancer include:
- Have an organ transplant;
- Being infected with HIV;
- Having an autoimmune disease such as Lupus or Sjögren's Syndrome;
- Suffering from Epstein-Barr or HTLV-1 virus infection;
- Prolonged exposure to chemicals;
- Have family history of illness.
Although family history increases the risk of developing the disease, lymphatic cancer is not hereditary, that is, from parents to children, and is not contagious.
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