limfómát

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and nodes that are part of the immune system. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Lymphoma can affect lymph nodes in various parts of the body, including the neck, armpits, groin, and abdomen, as well as organs like the spleen, bone marrow, and thymus.

There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is distinguished by the presence of specific abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a more diverse group of cancers, encompassing many subtypes that vary in their cells of origin, aggressiveness, and treatment approaches.

Symptoms of lymphoma can include painless swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and itching. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, imaging scans (such as CT or PET scans), and a biopsy of an affected lymph node or tissue. The biopsy is crucial for identifying the specific type of lymphoma and determining the stage of the disease.

Treatment for lymphoma depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. In some cases, stem cell transplantation may be used. The prognosis for lymphoma varies significantly depending on the subtype and other factors.