Lymphatic cancer or lymphoma is a disease characterized by the abnormal proliferation of lymphocytes, which are cells responsible for the defense of the organism. Normally, lymphocytes are produced and stored in the lymphatic system, which is made up of organs, such as the thymus and spleen, and a network of vessels responsible for transporting the lymph from the tissues to the blood vessels, which are called lymph nodes or languages.
In the case of lymphoma, the lymphocytes undergo changes and, therefore, start to multiply very quickly or stop being 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 in the throat, for example, tiredness and general malaise.
The diagnosis is made through laboratory tests, such as the blood count, in which lymphocytosis is checked, 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, the doctor may request ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, for example, to observe which regions are affected and the evolution of the lymphoma.
Lymphatic system
Possible causes
Although the alteration that occurs in lymphocytes to develop lymphatic cancer is known, it is not yet known exactly why it happens. Most cases of lymphatic cancer occur spontaneously and for no apparent reason. However, some factors can influence the appearance 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 tongues of the neck, armpits, abdomen or groin. Other symptoms are:
- Tiredness;
- General malaise;
- Fever;
- Loss of appetite;
- Weight loss for no apparent reason.
Symptoms associated with lymphatic cancer are the same as in other situations, so it is important to seek help from a general practitioner in order to request tests that can help the diagnosis and start treatment. See what are the other signs of this type of cancer.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of lymphatic cancer is done according to the degree of impairment of the lymphatic system and the evolution of the disease, that is, if the altered lymphocytes are already found in other parts of the body. Thus, 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 changes and hair loss, which is the most common effect.
Lymphatic cancer is curable when diagnosed at the first symptoms, and the treatment started soon afterwards to avoid 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 had an organ transplant;
- Being infected with HIV;
- Having an autoimmune disease like Lupus or Sjogren's Syndrome;
- Suffer an infection by the Epstein-Barr virus or HTLV-1;
- Prolonged exposure to chemicals;
- Having a family history of the disease.
Although family history increases the risk of developing the disease, lymphatic cancer is not hereditary, that is, it is only from parents to children, and it is not contagious.
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