Symptoms of Lymphoma

As part of the immune system, the lymphatic system helps maintain the body’s integrity by fighting against microbial invasion. The malignancy is often found in the cells of the lymphatic system, mainly in the T-Cells and B-Cells. These cells are responsible for destroying microorganisms that enter the body and also serves as memory cells for faster immune system response when the same microorganism gains entry again inside the body. In lymphoma the lymphatic system is highly affected. This is probably the reason why some symptoms of lymphoma are similar to symptoms of infection. The signs and symptoms of lymphoma include:  

·         Enlarged lymph node – the lymph node is rubbery and non-tender. It can be located at the neck, armpit, chest, or groin. The lymph node becomes enlarged because the malignant cells have accumulated and collected in the lymph node. When the disease starts to spread, it does so in an orderly manner; if it starts at the neck, the subclavicular nodes would be next, then the armpits, and so on.  

·         Unexplained weight loss, fever, and night sweats – these symptoms of lymphoma are often called “B-symptoms.” The symptoms are similar to other infections such as tuberculosis, which is why some opt for check up or treatment when the desease has become severe. 

·         Anorexia, feeling of fullness, abdominal distension – when lymphoma has affected the liver and spleen, symptoms of lymphoma appear because the size of the said organs has increased and the function has been affected.  

·         Weakness, easy fatigability – a person manifests these symptoms of lymphoma because of spleen and bone marrow affectation. Production and storage of RBC is greatly reduced leading to anemia. 

·         Chest pain, difficulty of breathing, persistent cough – these symptoms of lymphoma occur when a lymph node is compressing the air passages, and if the malignancy metastasized towards the lungs. 

If these signs and symptoms of lymphoma have been noted in for two weeks or more with no signs of abatement, it is now time to have an appointment with a doctor. A biopsy of a malignant node must be done to arrive with a definite diagnosis of lymphoma. Staging must be done through other tests such as imaging and serologic studies to determine the proper management of lymphoma.