Conditions We Treat: Lymphoma

Lymphoma FAQs

What is lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in your lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system is an extensive network of tissues and organs that includes lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, your spleen, the thymus gland, and bone marrow.

The lymphatic vessels carry lymph fluid and white blood cells to all the tissues in your body, where their job is to fight germs and infections.

What are the types of lymphoma?

There are numerous subtypes of lymphoma, most of which fall under two primary types:

Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma most often affects lymph nodes in the neck or the area between your lungs, but it can also begin in lymph nodes under your arm and in the groin or abdomen. When this type of lymphoma spreads, it typically affects the spleen, liver, bone, and bone marrow.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma begins in specific immune-system cells called B cells, T cells, and NK cells. Since these cells are found throughout the lymphatic system, this type of lymphoma can begin anywhere and spread to virtually any organ.

What symptoms develop due to lymphoma?

Some patients don’t develop symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they vary depending on the type of lymphoma.

Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms include:

• Painless, swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained fever that doesn’t go away
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itching that’s sometimes severe
• Painful lymph nodes triggered by drinking alcohol
• Shortness of breath or cough
• Night sweats

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms include:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen, groin, underarms, or neck
• Unexplained fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chills and sweating
• Fatigue

Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma may have symptoms caused by an enlarged spleen or liver, such as abdominal pain and feeling full after eating. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma also produces a range of symptoms depending on the location of the tumor.

How is lymphoma treated?

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology treats all types of lymphoma, from low-grade to very aggressive tumors, using the most advanced treatment options available. After determining the type and grade of your lymphoma, your treatment may include:

Chemotherapy
During chemotherapy, drugs that destroy cancer cells are administered intravenously, using pills or capsules, or through a port-a-cath placed under your skin.

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medications that target specific proteins and genes to destroy the cancer cells. The team may recommend targeted therapy alongside other treatments.

Our team develops a personalized treatment plan depending on your specific symptoms and needs. The practice also participates in clinical trials, which may be available.

If you need compassionate care for lymphoma, call the expert team at Hunterdon Hematology Oncology today or book an appointment online.