Lymphatic Cancer (Lymphoma)

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma  

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.  

Lymph, a clear fluid, travels through the vessels of the lymphatic system and contains lymphocytes which help fight infections.  

In non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the lymphocytes multiply abnormally and gather in certain parts of the lymphatic system such as the lymph nodes.

Hodgkin Lymphoma  

Hodgkin lymphoma is an uncommon cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. 

In Hodgkin lymphoma, B-lymphocytes multiply abnormally and gather in certain parts of the lymphatic system, such as the lymph nodes. 

In both cases, the affected lymphocytes lose their ability to combat infections and increases your likelihood of illness.  

IN OUR REGION

Cumbria’s rates of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are 21% higher than the national average, with Cheshire not far behind at 20%.

SYMPTOMS (for both types)

• A painless swelling in a lymph node, usually in the neck, armpit or groin  
• Night sweats  
• Unintentional weight loss  
• High temperature / fever  
• Feelings of breathlessness  
• Persistent itchy skin all over the body  

CAUSES OF NON-HODGKINS LYMPHOMA 

The exact reason or trigger for the change in the lymphocytes isn’t known, but a number of factors can increase your risk of developing the condition.  

• A medical condition that weakens your immune system, such as HIV  
• Medical treatment that weakens your immune system (immunosuppressants) 
• An autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or Sjögren's syndrome 
• Previous exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever 
• The human T-cell lymphotropic virus  
• Helicobacter pylori infection  
• Previously received chemotherapy or radiotherapy  
• Coeliac disease 

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not infections and is not thought to run in families, but your risk may be slightly increased if a parent or sibling has had lymphoma.  

It can occur at any age, with a third of cases diagnosed in people over 75. It’s slightly more common in men than women.  

CAUSES OF HODGKINS LYMPHOMA 

The exact cause of Hodgkin lymphoma is unknown, but your risk of developing the condition is increased if:  

• You have a medical condition that weakens your immune system, such as HIV  
• You take immunosuppressant medicine  
• You’ve previously been exposed to a common virus called the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever  
• You have a first degree relative has had the condition  
• You are very overweight (this may be more of a risk factor in women than men)  
• You smoke 

Anyone can get Hodgkin lymphoma, but it’s more common in people aged 20 to 40 OR over 75. It affects slightly more men than women.  

TREATMENT

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is usually treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Some people may not need treatment instantly.  

In some cases if the initial cancer is very small and can be removed during a biopsy, no further treatment may be required.  

Hodgkin lymphoma can usually be treated successfully with chemotherapy alone, or chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy. Chemotherapy may be combined with steroid medicine on occasion.  

Overall, treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma is highly effective and most people with the condition are eventually cured.   

If you have any concerns about the signs and symptoms of womb cancer, please visit your GP.