One simply can’t underestimate the value of the lymphatic system. With this system as part of the immune system, we are constantly protected from both common and life threatening infections. The lymphatic system however is not exempt from getting sick or from malfunctioning too. One of the illnesses that may affect the system is lymphatic cancer.

 

Types of Lymphoma or Lymphatic Cancer

 

Lymphatic cancer is also commonly known as lymphoma. A person who is sick with this type of cancer and is not promptly treated may suffer from a weakening of the immune system. There are two major types of this cancer. One is known as Hodgkin’s lymphoma while the other is known as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The latter is more common than the Hodgkin’s type. There are about thirty-five subtypes covered by these two major types of lymphoma. Only five of these belong to the Hodgkin’s category.

 

Under normal circumstances, B and T cells are the ones that fight infection and foreign invaders. A person with lymphoma will have B or T cells that will begin to multiply abnormally without any of the other old cells dying out. The difference between Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is that Hodgkin’s lymphoma has abnormal B cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells. Those with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma do not have these specific abnormal cells but the abnormal cells are also more commonly B cells. In some cases, the T cells may be the ones that multiply abnormally in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

 

People who are over 60 years old may be more at risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Those who are more than 55 or who are between 15-40 years old and who are male may be more at risk of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

 

Symptoms of Lymphatic Cancer

 

The symptoms of lymphatic cancer can easily be confused with other conditions. Both major types of lymphoma also share some similar symptoms. It seems that the primary method of differentiation between the two conditions is through the identification of the Reed-Sternberg cells. Some symptoms that are common to both types of lymphoma include fatigue, sweating, weight loss, fever and chills. As with other forms of cancer, the lymph nodes may also begin to swell. Potentially cancerous swelling may be characterized by hardness and rigidity.

 

Treatment for Lymphatic Cancer

 

The treatment for lymphatic cancer will depend on the type of cancer. Doctors may choose different approaches and treatment combinations depending on whether the cancer is of the Hodgkin’s or the non-Hodgkin’s type. Treatment will also depend on the severity of the condition, the age of the patient and the overall health condition of the patient.

 

Like other forms of cancer though, lymphatic cancer patients may benefit from general forms of cancer treatment. Radiation therapy for example may be used if the cancer cells have not yet spread to other lymph nodes or to other organs in the body. Chemotherapy or a combination of treatments may be preferred if the cancer cells have already begun to spread.

 

You may or may not have lymphatic cancer if you exhibit its symptoms. It is always best though to be safe than sorry. If the symptoms persist, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.