Summary about Disease
Non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) are a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. Specifically, they arise from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. In NHL, these lymphocytes become abnormal and grow uncontrollably. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL includes a wide variety of subtypes with varying prognoses and treatment approaches. The behavior of NHL can range from slow-growing (indolent) to rapidly aggressive.
Symptoms
Symptoms of NHL can vary depending on the subtype and location of the lymphoma. Common symptoms include:
Swollen lymph nodes (painless lumps) in the neck, armpit, or groin
Fatigue
Fever
Night sweats
Unexplained weight loss
Itchy skin
Abdominal pain or swelling
Chest pain or pressure
Coughing or trouble breathing
Causes
The exact cause of most NHLs is unknown. However, several factors can increase the risk of developing NHL:
Weakened immune system: People with HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, or who have received organ transplants are at higher risk.
Certain infections: Infections such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), Helicobacter pylori, and hepatitis C virus have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of NHL.
Exposure to certain chemicals: Exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and benzene may increase the risk.
Age: The risk of NHL generally increases with age.
Genetic factors: Some genetic mutations and inherited conditions can increase the risk, but NHL is not typically considered hereditary.
Medicine Used
Treatment for NHL depends on the subtype, stage, and aggressiveness of the lymphoma, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Rituximab is a common immunotherapy drug used to treat many types of NHL. Newer types of immunotherapy such as checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy are also being used for some types of NHL.
Targeted therapy: Uses drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
Watchful waiting: For indolent lymphomas, sometimes doctors will monitor the lymphoma without immediate treatment until symptoms appear or worsen.
Is Communicable
No, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Since the causes of NHL are not completely understood, there aren't specific precautions to completely prevent it. However, reducing risk factors may be beneficial:
Avoid exposure to known carcinogens: Minimize exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and benzene.
Manage infections: Seek prompt treatment for infections linked to NHL, such as hepatitis C or Helicobacter pylori.
Maintain a healthy immune system: Follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. If you have a condition that weakens your immune system, work with your doctor to manage it.
Regular Checkups: Individuals considered high risk due to family history or other factors should consult with their doctor for recommended screening and early detection measures.
How long does an outbreak last?
NHL is not an outbreak in the traditional sense (like an infectious disease). It's a chronic condition. The "duration" refers to the lifespan of the disease, which can vary significantly depending on the subtype, stage, treatment, and individual response. Some indolent lymphomas may remain stable for many years, while aggressive lymphomas can progress rapidly if untreated. Treatment aims to achieve remission (disease control), but relapse is possible.
How is it diagnosed?
NHL is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods:
Physical exam: To check for swollen lymph nodes and other signs of the disease.
Blood tests: To evaluate blood cell counts and organ function.
Lymph node biopsy: Surgical removal of a lymph node for microscopic examination. This is the definitive diagnostic test.
Bone marrow biopsy: To check for lymphoma cells in the bone marrow.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans to determine the extent of the lymphoma and to stage the disease.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of NHL:
Indolent lymphomas: Symptoms may develop slowly over months or years. Some people may have no symptoms at all for a long period.
Aggressive lymphomas: Symptoms can appear and worsen rapidly, sometimes within weeks or months. The specific order in which symptoms appear also varies from person to person. Swollen lymph nodes are often the first noticeable sign, but other symptoms like fatigue, fever, or weight loss may also be initial indicators.
Important Considerations
Subtype matters: NHL is not a single disease. Accurate diagnosis of the specific subtype is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach.
Staging is important: Staging determines how far the lymphoma has spread and helps guide treatment decisions.
Treatment is individualized: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual patient and the specific characteristics of their lymphoma.
Clinical trials: Consider participating in clinical trials to access new and promising treatments.
Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor for recurrence and manage any long-term side effects of treatment.
Emotional support: Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Seek support from family, friends, support groups, or mental health professionals.