Lymphoma (first part ) بالانجليزية

                                                

                                                               Figures. anatomy of the lymph system 

    Lymphatic disease is a condition in which there is an abnormality or disruption in the normal structure or function of the lymph or lymphatic vessels. Lymphoma is a common disease of the lymphatic system, accounting for about half of blood cancers each year. The lymphatic system helps remove excess fluids and produce immune cells, with lymph nodes located in various parts of the body such as the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen. The lymphatic system also includes lymphatic channels that connect thousands of lymph nodes, and lymphatic tissues like tonsils, thymus gland, spleen, and bone marrow. Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, become abnormal and transform into cancerous cells. These cells can then multiply and form masses in the lymph nodes or other organs, gradually weakening the immune system. Due to the widespread presence of lymph tissue in the body, lymphomas can develop anywhere.

    There are two main types of lymphomas: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin's Lymphoma (HL). HL typically spreads in a systematic way from one group of lymph nodes to another, while the exact cause is unknown. Most patients with HL are young adults, and it is considered one of the most treatable forms of cancer. On the other hand, NHL spreads through the lymphatic system in     a less predictable manner. NHL is one of the most common blood-related diseases worldwide, with some forms being fast-growing and others slow-growing. 

       Lymphoma is classified into four stages based on the extent of the disease: Stage I involves one lymph node region or a single organ; Stage II involves two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm; Stage III involves two or more lymph node regions above and below the diaphragm; and Stage IV is characterized by widespread disease affecting multiple organs, with or without lymph node involvement, and potential bone marrow involvement. 

      Symptoms of lymphoma vary depending on the type and location in the body, but commonly include painless swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, rash, itching, coughing, trouble breathing, or chest pain, and ongoing fatigue. Major risk factors that can be controlled, such as tobacco use and obesity, play a significant role in the development of lymphoma, along with genetic, infectious, and inflammatory causes. The preferred method for diagnosing lymphoma is through an open lymph node biopsy. 

     Treatment for lymphoma varies depending on the type of lymphoma, the stage of the disease, and how fast it is likely to grow.  Lymphoma are diverse and may require a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or other treatments. Hodgkin lymphoma is typically treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination, and in some cases, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. Patients with Hodgkin lymphoma often have successful outcomes. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, biologic therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these, and in some cases, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation may be necessary. Aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma requires immediate chemotherapy. Some cases may require a stem cell transplant with aggressive chemotherapy. While some forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are not curable, they have a good prognosis and patients may live for many years after diagnosis.  Palliative care may also be considered to improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Response to treatment may change over time, necessitating monitoring of new treatment options. Remission or cure is possible with various treatments.  

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