Introduction

• Lymphoma is a type of cancer involving cells of the lymphatic tissues. These include the thymus, tonsils, adenoids, spleen and bone marrow.
• Lymphoma can be divided into 2 broad categories depending on the appearance of the cells.
• It can be Hodgkin’s Lymphoma or Hodgkin disease (HL) and non Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL).
• Lymphomas may spread from one site to other parts of the body.
• The cause of lymphoma is not known.
• Children have a higher risk of developing non-Hodgkin Lymphoma if they are immune deficient whether inherited or acquired such as in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. They are also at risk if they have had previous treatment with radiotherapy and chemotherapy or have undergone an organ transplant and are on drugs to suppress their immune system.

Diagnose of Lymphoma

• Symptoms include progressive painless enlargement of lymph nodes, unexplained fevers, night sweats, loss of appetite and weight.
• Physical examination- The purpose of this exam is to check for enlarged lymph nodes, liver or spleen as well as signs of local infection.
• Medical history- In addition, the doctor will also ask about the child’s past medical history, the parents past health and other issues.
• If enlarged lymph is found, the doctor will make an observation on the node closely to see if it continues to grow.
• The doctor may prescribe antibiotic if the gland is believed to be infected by bacteria.
• If the node continues to grow, a lymph node biopsy will be done to confirm that the node is affected by lymphoma as well as to determine the type.
• In this procedure, a sample of tissue is taken either by using a thin hollow needle or a small surgical procedure.
• This tissue will be sent to the laboratory to determine the specific type of lymphoma.
• Biopsy will also be necessary for lymphomas that occur in the chest, abdomen or bone marrow.

 The following tests are also done to identify other areas to which the lymphoma may have spread:

• Blood test- including complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood chemistry- including test of liver and kidney functions
• Bone marrow aspiration/biopsy
• Lumber spinal- to check if the cancer has spread to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
• Ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Bone scan or gallium scan
• Positron emission tomography (PET)- this involves the use of radioactive material which is injected into the bloodstream to look for evidence of the tumors throughout the body.

These tests will determine the stage of the lymphoma and the intensity of treatment required.

Treatment of Lymphoma

• Chemotherapy is the main form of treatment for all types of lymphomas
• Radiotherapy may also be used in selected cases.

Updated:: [amir_peli] Updated:: 18/12/2013 [ctfarhanah]