Lymphoma

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that primarily begins in the lymphatic system - one of the body’s main defences against infection.. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes located throughout the body, such as in the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen, as well as the spleen, bone marrow & lymphatic vessels. Together, they help the body filter germs and produce infection-fighting white blood cells.

In lymphoma, certain white blood cells (lymphocytes) multiply uncontrollably, disrupting normal lymph node function and impairing the body’s ability to defend itself against infections.

Lymphoma can develop in various forms, with distinct characteristics, each requiring different approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

What Causes Lymphoma?

Lymphoma begins when certain lymphocytes undergo mutations in their DNA, disrupting the normal growth and death cycle of cells. These mutations can lead to:

Uncontrolled cell growth: Diseased lymphocytes grow and divide uncontrollably.
Prolonged cell survival: Cancerous cells live longer than healthy cells.
Swollen lymphatic organs: The overgrowth of these cells causes swelling in the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver.

While the exact cause is unknown, several factors contribute to the development of lymphoma, including genetic mutations, infections, and environmental influences.

What Are the Types of Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is categorised into two major types, based on the presence of specific cells and their behaviour:

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s Disease)

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is identified by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in the lymph nodes. It’s more common in young adults and teens. Hodgkin’s lymphoma typically spreads from one lymph node group to another in an orderly fashion.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma includes all other forms of lymphoma that do not involve Reed-Sternberg cells. It’s more prevalent in adults, particularly those over 50.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma involves the malignant growth of lymphocytes and is further divided into various subtypes based on the type of lymphocyte and their characteristics under a microscope.

Risk Factors for Lymphoma

Several factors can increase the risk of developing lymphoma:

Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV or medications that suppress the immune system (e.g., post-organ transplant drugs) can increase susceptibility.
Family history: Having a parent, sibling, or child with lymphoma raises the risk.
Specific infections: Viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or Helicobacter pylori are linked to higher lymphoma risk.
Age-related risk: Certain types of lymphoma are more common in teens, young adults, and individuals over 55.

In children, while the causes of lymphoma are not fully understood, genetic predisposition and exposure to certain infections may play a role.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma can appear in many ways, and early signs are often easy to overlook. Common symptoms include:

Painless swelling of lymph nodes: Often noticed in the neck, armpits, groin, or abdomen.
Fever: Persistent fever without an obvious cause.
Night sweats: Drenching sweats during sleep.
Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or weakness.
Itchy skin: Persistent itching with no apparent cause.
Unexplained weight loss: Significant weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
Discomfort or pain: Pain in the chest, abdomen, or bones, particularly if the cancer has spread.

Symptoms in Children

In children, symptoms may also include:

Abdominal swelling or pain:Often due to enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen.
Difficulty breathing or coughing: If lymph nodes in the chest are involved.
Frequent infections: A weakened immune system can make children more susceptible to infections.

It’s important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to lymphoma and may overlap with other conditions, such as infections. However, if these signs persist or worsen, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our experienced cancer care team provides advanced diagnostic tests and comprehensive care for lymphoma patients. We are committed to delivering personalised treatment plans and support for every stage of lymphoma.

A Word of Reassurance

Being told you might have lymphoma can feel overwhelming. Yet with modern treatments and attentive care, many forms of lymphoma are curable, and most people respond well to therapy.

At SJMC, we walk this journey with you — offering medical expertise, emotional support, and hope at every step.

FAQs About Lymphoma Causes and Symptoms

Occasionally, people experience persistent itching, chest pain, or a rash without other obvious causes. These should still be checked by a doctor.

Not always. Some types begin in internal organs, where swelling isn’t visible from the outside.

Infections such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Helicobacter pylori have been associated with an increased risk of lymphoma.

Lymphoma disrupts the immune system by causing abnormal lymphocytes to multiply uncontrollably. These cancerous cells accumulate in the lymph nodes and other parts of the lymphatic system, impairing the body’s ability to fight infections effectively.

While many symptoms overlap, children may show additional signs such as abdominal swelling, difficulty breathing, or frequent infections. Adults may experience more generalised symptoms like fatigue, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.

Studies suggest that hormonal and immune system differences between men and women may contribute to the higher incidence of lymphoma in men.

Yes, some individuals with early-stage lymphoma may not show any symptoms. The condition may only be discovered during routine medical tests or imaging for unrelated issues.