We Know: The Facts About Lymphomas What are lymphomas? Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic network which include the lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, and liver. The lymphatic system is comprised of white blood cells called lymphocytes that fight against infections. The causes of lymphomas are unknown. According to the National Institute of Health, lymphomas comprise 5% of all cancers. Hodgkin's lymphomas constitute less than 1% of all cancers in the United States. How does one get lymphomas? Lymph glands are located in the underarms, groin, neck, and abdominal areas. Cancerous cells in the lymph gland grow and begin forming clumps, which become solid masses. Because the lymphatic system circulates all over the body, if cancerous cells break off from the originating lymph gland, it can circulate in the lymph fluid to other lymph glands. Therefore, lymphomas can start with any part of the body. What are the different types of lymphomas? There are two major categories of lymphomas: Hodgkin's Disease, which is the most treatable form of lymphoma and occurs in individuals ages 15 to 34 or over the age of 55, and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, by which all other subtypes are grouped. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma affects individuals over the age of 50 and in the immuno-suppressed populations. What are the symptoms associated with lymphomas? Swollen lymph glands that do not hurt but occur for more than two weeks are the first signs of lymphoma. Other symptoms include fever, chills, sweating, and weight loss. Hodgkin's lymphoma may also include these additional symptoms: Fatigue Skin flushing Itching Hair loss Splenomegaly Loss of appetite How are lymphomas treated? Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both is used to treat lymphomas, depending on the stage and grade. Low grade lymphomas are usually treated with radiation therapy or with the radiation therapy/chemotherapy combination. High grade lymphomas are treated with chemotherapy alone. For Hodgkin's lymphomas, a combination drug called ABVD (adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine) is used for treatment. Severe cases of Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas may require bone marrow transplants. What are the survival rates for the different types of lymphomas? Hodgkin's lymphoma is treatable and curable, with an 80% cure rate. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, on the other hand, has a 30% cure rate, and survival is expected to be 6 to 8 years for low-grade Non-Hodgkin's. lymphomas.
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