Lymphoma is a blood cancer that develops from the uncontrollable growth of white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphoma is also referred to as the immune system's cancer as lymphocytes aid the body in fighting infections.

In 2020, non-Hodgkin lymphoma accounted for 4% of newly diagnosed cancer cases in Malaysia, where it was the eighth most common cancer. The other form of lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, accounted for 5 out of every 1,000 new cancer cases.

What are the types of lymphoma?

There are over 60 types of lymphoma, which can be categorised into:

• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Slow-growing lymphoma (“low-grade” or “indolent”)
  • Fast-growing lymphoma (“high-grade” or “aggressive”)

What are the risk factors for developing lymphoma?

Being a male, having a weakened immune system, and having a family history of the respective lymphomas all increase the risk of developing lymphoma.

Risk factors for developing Hodgkin lymphoma are:

• Early adulthood (in the 20s) or late adulthood (over 50s)
• Epstein-Barr virus infection/mononucleosis

Risk factors for developing Non-Hodgkin lymphoma are:

• Age of 60 years or older
• Overweight
• Certain autoimmune diseases
• Exposure to specific chemicals such as benzene, herbicides or insecticides
• Exposure to radiation

What are the signs and symptoms of lymphoma?

Symptoms that indicate the possibility of Hodgkin lymphoma include:

• Itchy skin
• Fatigue
• Appetite loss
• Coughing, breathing difficulties, chest pain

Meanwhile, non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms often include:

• Chills
• Fatigue
• Enlargement of the lymph nodes
• Swelling of the abdomen
• Feeling full after consuming a small amount of food
• Coughing, breathing difficulties, chest pain
• Frequent or severe infections
• Easy bleeding or bruising

Certain lymphoma patients may experience B symptoms:

• Fever that lasts for several days or weeks but is not caused by an infection
• Excessive night sweats
• Weight loss of at least 10% of body weight over 6 months

How do doctors diagnose lymphoma?

Doctors will be able to better diagnose the disease through medical history and physical assessments as well as blood tests.

Other tests include:

• A biopsy, which involves the removal of a tiny tissue sample of the lymph node to be examined under a microscope.
• Imaging tests to provide images of the inside of the body to identify and diagnose the stage of the disease. They may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of a treatment or to look out for signs of recurring cancer.

Learn more about the different types of screening and diagnostic procedures performed to diagnose lymphoma.

What can I do to reduce the risk of developing lymphoma?

The risk of lymphomas can be reduced by taking the following measures:

• Avoiding the known risk factors of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which may weaken the immune system
• Making lifestyle changes to keep the immune system healthy
• Keeping a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Practising healthy eating habits

Do I need to get screened for lymphoma?

There are currently no available routine screening tests for lymphoma. However, it is important to look out for possible symptoms of lymphoma such as enlarged lymph nodes (typically on the neck, armpit, or groin). While the pain may be caused by other conditions, it is still important to see a doctor, especially if the pain persists or worsens

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Early detection of lymphoma makes it easier to treat the disease with effective and appropriate treatment. A dedicated multidisciplinary team of specialists and oncologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance to patients through screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any concerns or questions about lymphoma treatment options.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.