Lymphoma: Symptoms, Signs, and What a Blood Test Shows

Lymphoma is a cancer of the part of the immune system called the lymphatic system. When a person notices an enlarged lymph node or unexplained weakness, the first thought is often frightening. Let us calmly go over which manifestations occur in lymphoma and how doctors confirm it.

What lymphoma is and how it manifests

Lymphoma is a group of diseases of lymphatic tissue in which "tumor" lymphocytes accumulate uncontrollably in lymph nodes and internal organs. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas are distinguished. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas begin when a T or B lymphocyte becomes abnormal and divides again and again, and these cells can spread to almost any part of the body. Most often the causes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are unknown to doctors; the risk is higher with a weakened immune system and certain infections. For Hodgkin lymphoma, no association with ionizing radiation has been identified.

Lymphoma in the neck and enlarged lymph nodes

The first symptoms of lymphoma are enlargement of lymph nodes in various groups: cervical, axillary, or inguinal. In lymphoma such nodes are often enlarged but painless. Enlargement of a node by itself does not mean a diagnosis; the cause is determined by a doctor. But persistent, painless enlargement of a node is a reason to see a specialist.

General symptoms: weakness, weight loss, fever

In addition to enlarged lymph nodes, lymphoma can cause unexplained weight loss, fever, drenching night sweats, cough, difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as weakness and fatigue that do not go away. In indolent lymphomas with a low grade of malignancy, in some cases observation by a hematologist or oncologist is sufficient, but at the first signs of progression — enlargement of lymph nodes, fever, chronic weakness — treatment is started.

Lung lymphoma and ascites: rare manifestations

Lymphoma can affect internal organs. Among the manifestations are cough, difficulty breathing and chest pain, as well as pain, swelling, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. The cause of such symptoms is determined by a doctor. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen; the cause is determined by a doctor.

Blood test in lymphoma: what it shows and what it does not show

Blood tests are part of the set of examinations when lymphoma is suspected, along with other methods; the results are assessed by a doctor. The list of examinations mentions blood tests, bone marrow tests, and tumor markers, including beta-2-microglobulin. What exactly to assess and how to read the numbers is decided by a doctor.

How the diagnosis is confirmed and when to see a doctor

Next, the stage is clarified; which examinations are needed is decided by a doctor. You should see a doctor if you have persistent enlargement of lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, fever and night sweats, or prolonged weakness. Ask your doctor which examinations have been ordered and why, what the biopsy showed, and what the next steps are.

• Enlarged painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Unexplained weight loss, fever, drenching night sweats
• Weakness and fatigue that do not go away
• Cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen

Enlargement of a lymph node by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — if there is sudden severe difficulty breathing or severe chest pain.

This material is for reference: it helps you prepare for a conversation with a doctor but does not replace consultation with a specialist.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer