How long can lymphoma last?

Written by Wu Xia
Oncology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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In clinical practice, lymphomas are classified into Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a relatively common type of tumor in China and has the highest incidence among lymphomas. However, it is further divided into dozens of subtypes, each with distinct clinical symptoms. Aggressive lymphomas can be cured, while indolent lymphomas can be managed with the tumor remaining. Thus, the question of how long one can live with lymphoma cannot be generalized; it depends on the type and stage of the disease, and many can be cured completely.

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Written by Liu Liang
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Is lymphoma the same as lymphatic cancer?

Lymphoma refers to a type of malignant tumor that originates in lymph nodes or extranodal tissues or organs. The cancer we usually talk about refers to malignant tumors originating from epithelial tissues, which we call cancer, such as lung cancer, liver cancer, etc. Therefore, lymphoma is actually what non-medical professionals commonly refer to as lymphatic cancer. It is simply called lymphoma instead of cancer because it originates in lymph nodes or extranodal tissues or organs, and therefore, it is termed malignant lymphoma, which in layman's terms is lymphatic cancer.

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What are the early symptoms of lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a malignant tumor of the hematological system, with early symptoms including painless enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, which are generally well-movable and firm or hard in texture early on, without inflammatory changes such as redness, swelling, heat, or pain. Additionally, lymphomas occurring in the gastrointestinal tract can clinically present with symptoms such as upper abdominal fullness and discomfort, bloating, nausea, recurrent acid reflux, and belching. Lymphomas occurring in the respiratory system can manifest clinically with symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath after activity, and chest pain. Lymphomas occurring in the brain can cause dizziness, headaches, movement disorders, ataxia, and abnormal gait.

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Written by Liu Liang
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Lymphoma registration: which department?

Patients diagnosed with lymphoma can register under the departments of Hematology or Oncology, as both departments can administer chemotherapy. However, radiation therapy can only be conducted in the Oncology department. Each hospital may have slightly different categorizations for departments and diseases. However, for a patient initially presenting with lymphoma, who has not yet been diagnosed and primarily shows symptoms of painless lymph node enlargement, they can register under General Surgery. After completing necessary examinations like an ultrasound, if lymphoma is suspected, a lymph node excision biopsy is usually performed in General Surgery.

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Written by Peng Li Bo
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Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms and signs

Actually, whether it is Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the symptoms and signs are quite similar. In terms of symptoms, because lymphoma mainly occurs as a lesion in the lymph nodes, it is characterized by superficial, localized enlargement of the lymph nodes. Common locations include the neck, then the armpits, and the groin—areas where lymph nodes are more prevalent. It manifests as a local swelling; simply put, you might feel a lump or a tumor on your neck, which is the most common symptom. Additionally, there are other systemic symptoms including fever, weight loss, night sweats, and itchy skin, among others. As for the physical signs, it mainly refers to palpable superficial lymph node enlargement upon examination.

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Is lymphoma contagious?

Lymphoma is not contagious, as it is not an infectious disease but a tumoral disease. Therefore, it is not contagious, and when seeking medical treatment for lymphoma, patients do not go to the department of infectious diseases. Typically, treatment is conducted in the oncology department or in the hematology department specializing in lymphoma. Thus, lymphoma is not contagious because it is not caused by an infectious pathogen. It is a solid tumor that is tangible and visible.