Malignant Lymphomas

What is Malignant Lymphomas ?

Lymphomas are a group of cancers in which cells of the lymphatic system become abnormal and start to grow uncontrollably. Because there is lymph tissue in many parts of the body, lymphomas can start in almost any organ of the body.

Traditionally, Lymphoma is classified as Hodgkin's lymphoma, discovered by Thomas Hodgkin in 1832, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (all other types of lymphoma). Modern classifications of lymphoma are more sophisticated than this simple scheme.

The lymphomas have a rapid and aggressive clinical course, commonly presenting in children and young adults, with frequent bone marrow and peripheral blood involvement.

Causes of Malignant Lymphomas

Although some theories point to a viral source, the cause of malignant lymphomas is unknown.

Signs & Symptoms of Malignant Lymphomas

• Enlarged tonsils
• Enlarged adenoids
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Malaise
• Night Sweats
• Swollen lymph glands
• Painless rubbery nodes in the cervical supraclavicular area, with possible dyspnea and coughing
• Weight Loss

Diagnostic Tests

Biopsies-of lymph nodes; of tonsils, bone marrmo liver, bowel, or skin; or, as needed, of tissue remove: during exploratory laparotomy-differentiate a malignant lymphoma from Hodgkin's disease. Chest X-rays; lymphangiography; liver, bone, and spleer scans; a computed tomography scan of the abdomer, and excretory urography indicate disease progression.

A complete blood count may show anemia.The patient may have a normal or elevated uric acid level and an elevated serum calcium level, resulting from bone lesions.

Treatment

Patients in whom SNCC lymphoma is suspected should be admitted to the hospital. These patients experience rapidly progressive lymphadenopathy; therefore, a diagnostic workup should be completed as soon as possible. Take measures to prevent tumor lysis syndrome. The main treatment include :-

• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Bone Marrow transplant is being investigation

Prevention Tips

Although many cancers may be prevented by making diet and life style changes which reduce risk factors, there is currently no known way to prevent lymphomas. Protecting oneself from developing AIDS, which may be a risk factor for lymphomas, is the only preventive measure that can be practiced. Early detection affords the best chance for a cure.