September is Blood Cancer Awareness month. So, just in the nick of time, here are a selection of facts about Lymphoma, a condition I’ve become all too familiar with over the past couple of years…
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, forming an intricate network of tubes, nodes and organs that filter out germs and toxins to protect us against disease. It relies primarily on lymph nodes and lymphocytes – white blood cells – to fight infection. However, in Lymphoma, the system is hijacked by abnormal lymphocytes that divide uncontrollably.
Why is Lymphoma a blood cancer?
There are three main types of blood cancer: leukaemias, myelomas and lymphomas. Most people associate the first two with blood cancer, however all lymphomas develop from types of white blood cells (lymphocytes). This means they are officially classed as blood cancers, even though most lymphomas cause clumps of abnormal lymphocytes in lymph nodes that don’t directly affect your bloodstream.
Are there different types of Lymphoma?
There are over 60 different types of Lymphoma, which are split into two broad categories: Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin. Hodgkin Lymphoma is defined by the presence of a distinct type of cell called Reed-Sternberg cells. These cells aren’t present in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma typically begins in the upper body, such as the neck, chest or armpits, whereas Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma may arise in lymph nodes anywhere in the body.
What are the symptoms of Lymphoma?
The most common symptoms are fatigue, night sweats, itching, unexplained weight loss, and enlarged lymph nodes. However, lymphoma can be tricky to diagnose, since most of its symptoms are present in much less serious conditions.
Do all Lymphoma patients get all of the symptoms?
Some patients have many symptoms, others only have a few. Some patients have no symptoms at all, and their Lymphoma is discovered during tests for something else. Not all Lymphomas present with obvious lumps (the majority of swollen lymph nodes are caused by infection), but, in general, the lumps are soft and rubbery, persist, and keep increasing in size.
Frustratingly, my overwhelming feeling in the months preceding my diagnosis was one of not feeling quite right, but not being able to pinpoint what was wrong. I was managing a hectic full-time job, climbing mountains at weekends, socializing, looking for new jobs even, so my tiredness wasn’t disproportional to my lifestyle. I’d woken up a bit sweaty a few times, but I also slept with my electric blanket on full blast.
As the diagnosis process got underway, I started having drenching night sweats and lost weight. My main tumour was in my chest, which meant it was harder to detect until it eventually exuded out between my ribs. The smaller ones on my neck (that I found much later) were rubbery and movable.
How many people are diagnosed each year?
Around 2,100 people are diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in the UK each year, versus 13,000 for Non-Hodgkin. By way of comparison, approximately 56,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK.
Who does Lymphoma affect?
Anyone can be affected by Lymphoma, at any stage of life. However, Hodgkin Lymphoma mostly affects people between 20 and 40 years of age and those over 75. Slightly more men than women are affected. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma also affects slightly more men than women, and most people diagnosed are over 55. The highest rate of diagnosis is in people aged between 80 and 84.
What kind of tests are used to diagnose Lymphoma?
There isn’t a specific blood test for Lymphoma, but full blood counts can pick up on any abnormalities that might indicate something more serious. If a lump is present, a small operation called a biopsy will be carried out. The cells removed from a suspicious lump can be examined in a lab to see if they are cancerous. Scans and X-rays are also used to give more detailed images of your insides and to show the extent of any spread of the disease.
Can Lymphoma be treated?
Yes. Although many different factors affect an individual’s prognosis, there are many different treatments out there with good success rates.
What type of treatment is used for Lymphoma?
Depending on the type and spread of the Lymphoma, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, stem cell transplants, steroids and targeted drugs can be used.
What support is out there for lymphoma?
Lymphoma Action is the only UK charity dedicated to people affected by Lymphoma. They have a range of fantastic support, including online support groups, a helpline, books and resources, a buddy service, a podcast and lots of personal stories from people affected.
Take home message?
Lymphoma can be treated. So if you’re not feeling quite right, it’s worth going to the GP (and keep pushing if symptoms persist).
Laura writes... 