2023-08-26 14:16:00
“Lymph Gland Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Therapy Explained”
Lymph gland cancer, also known as lymphoma, refers to malignant tumors that affect the lymphatic system. While lymphomas are relatively rare, they can occur anywhere in the body. In Germany, approximately 18,336 men and women were diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019. The disease is more commonly found in older individuals, with a median age at diagnosis of 72 for women and 70 for men. The prognosis for lymphoma is generally good, with a 5-year survival rate of 71%.
One of the primary symptoms of lymphoma is the swelling of lymph nodes, which is typically painless. If lymph nodes remain swollen for a period of two to four weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Other general symptoms of lymphoma, known as B symptoms, include fever, heavy night sweats, and unintended weight loss. Additionally, depending on the location of the affected lymphoma cells, individuals may experience abdominal pain, indigestion, cough, difficulty breathing, bone and joint pain. It is important to pay attention to these symptoms as they can vary in severity from person to person.
There are several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing lymphoma. These include previous radiation or chemotherapy treatments, which are known to be risk factors for leukemia and possibly lymphoma as well. A weakened immune system, which can result from organ transplants or HIV infections, can also promote the development of lymphoma. Certain infections, such as the Epstein-Barr virus and Helicobacter pylori, have been linked to the development of specific types of lymphoma. Furthermore, individuals with autoimmune diseases or a family history of malignant blood diseases may have an increased risk of developing lymphoma.
Lymphoma can be categorized into three major groups: Hodgkin-Lymphoma, non-Hodgkin-Lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Hodgkin-Lymphomas are a separate type of lymphoma named after the doctor who first described them, Sir Thomas Hodgkin. Non-Hodgkin-Lymphomas encompass around 30 different malignant lymphoma diseases, excluding Hodgkin-Lymphomas. Multiple myelomas arise from faulty plasma cells in the bone marrow.
When a lymphoma is suspected, a doctor will conduct a thorough medical history examination, paying attention to symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss. The doctor will also perform physical examinations, such as feeling the lymph nodes and examining the tonsils. Biopsies or tissue samples may be taken to confirm the presence of a lymphoma, and imaging studies, such as ultrasounds, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or PET scans, may be used to determine the extent of the disease.
Treatment options for lymphoma vary depending on the individual case. Chemotherapy, which targets both visible lymphomas and smaller tumor cells throughout the body, is commonly used. It can be combined with immunotherapy, where antibodies are used to target cancer cells specifically. Alternatively, radiation therapy can be employed to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors, although it may also affect healthy cells. The choice of treatment depends on the specific circumstances and should be discussed with a medical professional.
While lymphoma can be a challenging disease, early detection increases the chances of successful recovery. Familiarizing oneself with the symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome.]
#Recognize #act #early #warning #signals