Comprehensive Guide to Different Lymphoma Types

Understanding Various Lymphoma Types

Lymphoma is a cancer that affects lymphocytes, the white blood cells in the lymphatic system responsible for fighting infections. It causes these cells to multiply abnormally and can originate in lymph nodes or other lymphatic tissues. Early signs include painless, swollen lymph nodes, often without discomfort.

Lymphomas are categorized into Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s types. Hodgkin’s lymphoma is rare and characterized by RS cells, while non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is more prevalent, with several subtypes such as B-cell, T-cell, and others.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

1. B-cell lymphoma
This aggressive form develops from abnormal B-cells, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) being highly common. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, fever, and itching. It can also cause abdominal pain, cough, and digestive issues.

2. T-cell lymphoma
Making up about 15% of non-Hodgkin’s cases, T-cell lymphoma is rarer. The most common type affects the skin and internal organs, presenting as patches, plaques, tumors, and ulcerations. Symptoms include skin abnormalities, recurrent infections, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues.

3. Burkitt’s lymphoma
A very rare, aggressive lymphoma often linked to immune weakness. Common in children in regions with malaria or HIV. Symptoms include rapid lymph node growth, facial distortion, abdominal swelling, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

4. Mantle cell lymphoma
Another rare, aggressive form affecting the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract, often diagnosed late.

5. Follicular lymphoma
Typically diagnosed in older adults, progressing slowly. Diagnosed around age 60, symptoms include enlarged lymph nodes, fatigue, night sweats, and recurrent infections.

6. Small lymphocytic lymphoma
Similar to follicular, it grows slowly in lymph nodes, often detected incidentally.

7. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
A rare subtype manifesting in older adults, caused by abnormal antibody production, leading to anemia and increased infection risk.

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

1. Lymphocyte-depleted Hodgkin’s
Rare but more aggressive, affecting mainly individuals in their 30s, especially immune-compromised or HIV-infected patients. Characterized by RS cells amidst normal lymphocytes.

2. Lymphocyte-rich Hodgkin’s
Accounts for about 5% of cases, more common in men. Features lymphocytes and RS cells, aiding early detection.

3. Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin’s
Usually affects males aged 30–50, with fewer RS cells. It is a less aggressive form.

4. Mixed cellularity Hodgkin’s
Contains RS cells and lymphocytes, common in older men, and more prevalent overall.

5. Nodular sclerosis Hodgkin’s
The most common, representing about 70% of cases, often in young adults. It involves scar tissue in lymph nodes and is highly treatable and curable.