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What
is lymphoma?
Lymphomas are cancers that develop in the lymphatic system. The
lymphatic system is made up of (1) the tissues and organs (including
the bone marrow, spleen, tonsils, thymus and lymph nodes) that make
and store cells that fight infection and (2) the network of vessels
that carry lymph (the fluid that carries lymphocytes, a type of
white blood cell).
What
are the types of lymphoma?
Hodgkin's lymphoma (Hodgkin's disease) is characterized by the spread
of cancerous cells from one group of lymph nodes to a nearby group
of lymph nodes. Hodgkin's commonly starts in the upper body lymph
nodes but it can start almost anywhere. The cancer cells in Hodgkin's
lymphoma are unique, and are called Reed-Sternberg cells after the
two doctors that first described them in detail.
Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas generally spread through the lymphatic system
in a less orderly way. All lymphomas that do not have the characteristic
Reed-Sternberg cells fall into the category of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Currently, there are 39 different types of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
How
common is lymphoma?
We are seeing more cases of lymphoma each year. In 2002, it is estimated
61,000 Americans will be diagnosed with lymphoma (54,000 with Non-Hodgkin's
lymphomas and 7,000 with Hodgkin's lymphoma). Although it is found
in all age groups, lymphoma strikes adolescents 15-19 more than
any other kind of cancer. Lymphoma is also common in people over
55. As our population ages, the incidence of lymphoma becomes more
frequent.
How
is lymphoma treated?
Depending on the type and stage (how far the disease has spread
through the body) of lymphoma, it may be treated one or more of
the following ways: Chemotherapy - medicine given by injection,
intravenously or orally that kills cancer cells throughout the body;
Radiation - a high-energy beam from outside of the body focused
on a specific area to kill cancer cells; Biological therapy - an
injection of naturally occurring substances made by the immune system
into the blood stream to kill lymphoma cells, slow their growth,
or help the patient's own immune system to better fight the lymphoma;
Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant - a replacement of the bone
marrow or stem cells with new, healthy marrow or cells once all
of the lymphoma cells are killed off by chemotherapy and/or radiation
and no new cells are being produced.
What
causes lymphoma?
The exact causes of lymphoma are still unknown, but certain factors
may increase your risk of developing the disease. These risk factors
include: having an immune system disease, taking certain organ transplant
medications, working with chemicals that kill weeds or insects and
doing woodworking. However, it is important to remember that most
people with these risk factors never develop lymphoma.
What
are the symptoms of lymphoma?
Some people do not notice any symptoms, while others have painless
swelling of the lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, tiredness, weight
loss and itchy skin. These symptoms often have other causes, like
infection, so always rely on your healthcare provider for the correct
diagnosis.
What
can be done if my doctor and I think that I could have lymphoma?
Your physician may take a biopsy of the affected area, perform blood
tests, take a bone marrow biopsy or do imaging tests such as CT
(computerized tomography) scans, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging)
or X-rays. If your doctor is concerned that you have lymphoma, most
insurance companies cover the necessary tests. If you do not have
insurance or your insurance does not cover the required diagnostic
tests, organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society can help. Do not delay your testing
due to financial concerns.
What
is the potential for a cure?
With treatment, about 90 percent of patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma
can expect a cure. With non-Hodgkin's lymphoma there is no cure,
but many patients do go into remission. While in remission, patients
have no symptoms of the disease but it is still in their system
and may continue to recur over the course of the patient's life,
often requiring new treatment. Important research into causes and
cures of lymphoma is taking place at many hospitals, medical centers
and other institutions around the country. New treatments for lymphoma
and perhaps even a cure are in development.
What
can I do to reduce my risk of developing lymphoma?
Follow all of the precautions necessary to prevent contracting the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Do not expose your skin to strong
sunlight for an extended period of time. Stick to a diet high in
fruits and vegetables and low in fat. Refrain from smoking and drinking
excessive alcohol.
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"Look
Good.Feel Better" Brings Smiles, Confidence to Women
Women
undergoing cancer treatment may experience changes in their
appearance that affects how they feel about themselves and
their level of confidence. These may include hair loss and
changes in the complexion and the fingernails. "Look
Good.Feel Better," which is offered free at Calvert Memorial
Hospital, is an American Cancer Society program that helps
women cope with these changes and regain a sense of control
and self-esteem.
Volunteer
cosmetologists teach women how to enhance their appearance
using make-up techniques. Each woman learns to perform her
own make-over using complimentary cosmetics and skin care
products donated by the cosmetic industry. Women are also
taught how to disguise hair loss using wigs, turbans, scarves
and other accessories. For information about the dates and
times scheduled at CMH, call (410) 535-8233 or (301) 855-1012,
ext. 8233.
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