Regardless of the way that Lymphoma remains to be the most common type of blood cancer, there are many other subtypes that require nuanced treatment. Due to this, getting an accurate diagnosis and receiving individualized care can make a big difference in patient outcomes. And one of the best ways to go about this is by understanding the basics of Lymphoma.

You don’t have to go overboard since this information is nowadays readily available online. In a nutshell, Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in your lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that is part of the body’s immune system. They travel throughout the bloodstream and the lymphatic system to fight infection.

Actually, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and ducts that passes through nearly all of the body’s organs and tissues. This makes it easier for lymphocytes that mutate and become cancerous spread throughout the lymphatic tissue and to certain organs. Keep in mind there are different types of Lymphoma; i.e. Hodgkin Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Hodgkin Lymphoma most often begins in the lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs found in the neck, groin, underarm, or inside the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. This type of Lymphoma is uncommon, accounting for only about 10% of all Lymphoma cases. The good news is it’s typically diagnosed early and considered highly treatable.

sNon-Hodgkin Lymphoma, on the other hand, tends to develop in older adults, and accounts for about 90% of Lymphoma diagnoses. The numerous types of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma are often divided into indolent and aggressive. These two forms of NHL present different clinical behaviors and have different approaches to treatment.

The most common symptom of most types of Lymphoma is swollen or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, underarms, or groin. Other possible signs and symptoms of Lymphoma are fever, drenching night sweats, unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue and lack of energy. While these can be symptoms of Lymphoma, it’s important to know that they may be due to other conditions.

The above are some of the many things you should know about Lymphoma. Take it upon yourself to do your homework to better understand what this health complication entails. That way, you will certainly have an easy time when you want to treat Lymphoma before things get out of hand while you watch in silence.