Lymphoma is a group of blood cancers cancer of the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. It is caused by the uncontrollable growth of lymphocytes – a specific type of white blood cells. Usually, Lymphoma starts in lymph nodes and can spread through the lymphatic system and blood. This is different from leukemia, which primarily involves circulating blood, bone marrow, and a broader group of white blood cells.
The Lymphatic System Explained
The lymphatic system is like the body’s drainage and security system combined. It consists of a network of vessels that carry lymph, a clear fluid rich in immune cells, through lymph nodes. Lymph nodes act like checkpoints where immune cells scan for infections or abnormal cells. Think of the system as a city’s sanitation and police force: the drainage pipes (lymph vessels) collect waste and excess fluid, while the security checkpoints (lymph nodes) monitor for intruders and coordinate defense.
Causes and Biology
Lymphoma arises from genetic mutations in B-cells or T-cells that alter growth signals, survival pathways, or immune regulation. Many factors can increase risk of lymphoma such as weakened immunity (e.g., HIV or post-transplant), exposure to certain viruses (Epstein-Barr, HTLV-1), chronic immune stimulation, and family history. Environmental exposures (pollution, radiation) may also play a role. Lymphomas are classified broadly into Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), each with multiple subtypes ranging from those growing slowly (indolent) to those growing aggressively.
HL differs from NHL in the type lymphocyte that it affects. HL has a specific type of lymphocytes (Reed-Sternberg cells) that are large in size with multiple nuclei that multiply rapidly and group together, usually in the lymph nodes, and can form tumors that interfere with the function of the lymphatic system of fighting infection. Both types of cancer are rare, but HL is rarer than NHL and typically affects younger patients (median age of patient with HL diagnosis is 39 vs. 55 for NHL).
Lymphoma symptoms
- Enlarged, painless lymph nodes in neck, armpit, or groin
- Persistent fatigue
- Night sweats and fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itching or skin rashes
These symptoms overlap with infections, but in lymphoma they do not resolve and may steadily progress.
Lymphoma treatment approaches
- Chemotherapy: Often combination regimens like CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone)
- Targeted therapies: Rituxan (rituximab), an antibody against CD20 on B-cells; newer oral agents such as ibrutinib for certain NHL subtypes
- Immunotherapy: CAR-T cell therapy for refractory lymphomas
- Radiation therapy: Applied to localized disease
- Stem cell transplant: Considered in relapsed or aggressive cases
Supportive Medications
- Zofran (ondansetron) for chemotherapy-induced nausea
- Neulasta (pegfilgrastim) to reduce infection risk
- Antimicrobial prophylaxis depending on immune suppression level
- Pain and fatigue management strategies
Lifestyle Changes
- Maintain a nutrient-dense diet to sustain energy and immunity
- Incorporate gentle exercise, tailored to stamina, to reduce fatigue
- Stay current with vaccines and infection precautions as guided by physicians
- Use counseling or peer support to manage the psychological toll
Relapse Considerations
Relapse Considerations relapse risk varies by subtype. Indolent lymphomas can recur repeatedly and are often managed as chronic conditions, while aggressive lymphomas may relapse within months if not fully eradicated. Advanced therapies like CAR-T cells and novel targeted drugs have improved outcomes in relapse.
Lymphoma is a diverse group of blood cancers that range from highly curable to chronically managed conditions. Progress in treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and supportive care has dramatically expanded survival and improved quality of life. With RxVitaPharm’s specialty pharmacy services, patients can access advanced treatments, manage side effects, and stay actively engaged in their care.