Dr Daryl Tan was on a Facebook live with MediaCorp Capital 958 doing a Chinese interview to share more about lymph nodes’ impact on your health and how to look out for swollen lymph nodes. This summarises the interview with Mediacorp CAPITAL 958 (September 2024). Watch the full interview here.
Image credit: Freepik.com
Understanding the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body’s immune system, comprises tissues and organs that help protect the body from infections and diseases. This system includes the lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, spleen, and bone marrow, all working together to filter out harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. Lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, play a key role in defending the body.
The Lymphatic System and Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a form of blood cancer that arises in the lymphatic system, often starting in the lymph nodes. Lymphocytes, specifically B cells and T cells, are the primary cells involved in this type of cancer. Lymphoma typically occurs when a mutation in one of these lymphocytes causes it to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. This condition disrupts the normal function of the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases.
Signs and Symptoms of Lymphoma
The most common early symptom of lymphoma is the painless swelling of lymph nodes, usually in the neck, groin, or underarm areas. This swelling occurs as the cancerous lymphocytes accumulate. Other symptoms include:
- Fevers
- Heavy night sweats
- Persistent fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss, often around 10% of body weight
- Dry, itchy skin
- A red rash
These symptoms are often shared with other immune-related conditions but can signal lymphoma when persistent or combined.
Lymphoma in Singapore
Lymphoma is a relatively rare cancer in Singapore, with around 1,000 new cases diagnosed annually. It tends to affect the male population more frequently and primarily develops as individuals age. The most common age of diagnosis is in adults over 60. However, younger people can also be diagnosed with certain types of lymphoma, particularly Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Lymphomas are broadly categorized into two main types: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hodgkin’s lymphoma, often diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 15 and 40, is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, a specific type of abnormal B cell. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is more common in adults over 60, includes a variety of subtypes that affect both B cells and T cells. Both forms of lymphoma can be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and advanced immunotherapy options, depending on the stage of the disease.
Treatment and Advances in Lymphoma Care
Lymphoma treatment varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies that specifically attack cancerous lymphocytes. Immunotherapy is another promising approach, using the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Advances in medical research have made these treatments more effective, with higher survival rates for both Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients.
About Dr. Daryl Tan
Dr. Daryl Tan is an experienced haematologist specialising in the treatment of various blood cancers, including lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukaemia, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. With extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders and other general haematological conditions, Dr. Tan is well-versed in advanced treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy for lymphoma patients.