Lymphoma Cancers
by jmmillerLymphoma cancer is divided into two groups: Hodgkin’s disease and Non-Hodgkin’s Disease.
Hodgkin’s Disease, otherwise known as Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is less severe. The symptoms of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma are similar to other lymphomas, but the cells in Hodgkin’s disease are different. Hodgkin’s disease is quite rare in children under five years old.
Non- Hodgkin’s disease is a group of cancers found in the lymphatic system. There are three types of non- lymphoma cancer children can be diagnosed with:
- Large cell lymphoma
- Lymphoblastic lymphoma
- Small non cleaved cell lymphoma
The types of these cancers are determined by what the cancer cells look like under a microscope. If a child were to have lymphoma, it would most likely be non-Hodgkin’s disease. The doctor will look for swelling or lumps. The areas they will look will be:
- Underarms
- Neck
- Abdomen
- Groin
Some other symptoms can include:
- Weight loss
- Red skin patches
- Excessive sweating at night time
- Tiredness
- Itching
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
Sometimes the child will receive a chest x-ray to check for chest swelling. If the doctor examines the child and finds a lump in the chest or abdomen, or the lymph nodes don’t feel normal, the doctor will most likely want to do a biopsy. They will then look at a tissue sample under a microscope to determine if the cancer cells are present.
The treatment will depend on the child’s health and the stage of the cancer. There are three types of treatment that may be used. These include:
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Bone marrow transplantation (this is currently being trial tested on certain cancer patients)
If you have any questions or concerns about Lymphoma cancer please consult your doctor.
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