Cancer of the Lymph Nodes

Cancer of the lymph nodes is a type of cancer that attacks tiny, bean-shaped glands that are distributed throughout the body. Lymph nodes are an important part of the human lymphatic system which helps move fluids, waste, and nutrients through the bloodsream. The function of the lymnph nodes is filter and trap potentially harmful viruses, bacteria and other substances .

Cancer of the lymph nodes is also known as lymphatic cancer or more commonly, lymphoma. It accounts for approximately 5 percent of all cancer diagnoses.

Medical research has not been able to determine the exact cause of lymph node cancer. It can strike men or women, but males seem to be at higher risk than females. Mysteriously, it seems to strike most often between the ages of 15 and 34, less often in middle age, and then again after age 54.

In addition to gender, there are a number of other risk factors that have been pinpointed. Those with a family history of lymphoma seem to contract the disease more often than others. Also, anyone who has certain disorders like HIV or hepatitis are more likely to have lymph node cancer.

Cancer of the lymph nodes comes in two different forms: Hodgkins, and non-Hodkins. Hodgkins disease is relatively rare. 

Symptoms of Lymph Node Cancer

Some people have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, the first sign is usually swelling and pain under an arm, in the groin or in the neck. Lymph nodes in other areas may also become swollen. Typically, the spleen will become enlarged, causing abdominal discomfort.

As the cancerous lymph node swells, it may press on a blood vessel or a nerve, causing a tingling or numb sensation. If the lymph node is near the stomach, it may also cause a feeling of fullness.

Other symptoms include:

• constant fatigue,
• fever,
• night sweats, and
• unexplained weight loss.

Unfortunately, these latter symptoms are non-specific, meaning they could also be symptoms of many other disorders, like the flu or a viral infection. Symptoms of cancer of the lymph nodes persist, however, long after symptoms of a flu or virus would go away. So anyone who has the above symptoms for more than a few days should get a professional opinion as soon as possible. 

Treatment

Treatment for cancer of the lymph nodes varies somewhat, depending on the type and stage. The patient's age, general health, and previous medical history must all be considered.

Great strides in curing lymphoma have been made in recent decades.. When detected early, cancer of the lymph nodes can often be cured, and survivors often live long, cancer-free lives afterward. 

For related information, click on Hodgkin lymphoma, chemotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.