This is a summary of an article, written by Dr Daryl Tan, that was featured in PRIME Magazine
What is lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the cells of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s germ fighting network. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland and bone marrow. As lymphoma can affect any of these organs, patients suffering from lymphoma may present with a myriad of symptoms.
Lymphoma signs and symptoms
Although little is known about the causes of lymphoma. Almost all types of lymphoma contain mutations within the DNA, and the risk factors include old age, exposure to certain chemicals, immune deficiency, certain infections, radiation exposure, and possibly some viruses.
Common signs include:
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Pain
- Profound fatigue
- Itching
- Abnormal routine blood tests
The most accurate way to diagnose lymphoma is by obtaining a biopsy of the enlarged or abnormal tissue.
Modern Lymphoma treatment options
Treatment of lymphoma has evolved a great deal over the past few years and is tailored to specific subtypes of lymphoma. Recent advances have focused on increasing the precision of medicine and activating the body’s immune system to enhance the destruction of lymphoma cells. New insights into the biology of lymphomas also provided studying patterns of the cancer cell which further helped improve our ability to target lymphoma-driving abnormalities.
Precision medicine as the future
With the above-mentioned innovation and many other treatment options on the horizon in the fight against lymphoma, the prognosis of patients will continue to get better and conventional chemotherapy will eventually become obsolete as it gets replaced by precision medicine.
Dr Daryl Tan
Dr Daryl Tan is an experienced haematologist who specialises in the treatment of blood cancers, including lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukaemia, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. He also has expertise in diagnosing and treating bleeding disorders and general haematological conditions.
Seeking medical advice for your blood cancer or haematological condition? Contact Dr Daryl Tan today.