Lymphoma (Hodgkin Disease and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma)

Several factors may contribute to the development of lymphoma:

• Environmental factors - Recent studies show a possible link between lymphoma and exposure to certain chemicals, herbicides and insecticides. Further study is needed.

• Genetic factors - Studies indicate that patients with certain genetic (inherited) immunodeficiency disorders, such as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, may have an increased risk of developing lymphoma.

• Viral infections - Research suggests links between lymphoma and certain viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus and HIV. For example, one study found that Burkitt’s disease was related to Epstein-Barr virus in nearly all cases in Africa and in 15% of U.S. cases. Patients infected with HIV, especially those with AIDS, also are more likely to get both Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Symptoms

The main symptom of both Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas is swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, under the arms, or in the groin. Other symptoms can include:

• Fever

• Night sweats

• Fatigue

• Abdominal pain

• Unexplained weight loss

• Itchy skin

Because swollen lymph nodes caused by lymphoma usually are painless, lymph nodes may get larger slowly over a long time before the patient notices. Also, the fever commonly associated with lymphoma may appear and disappear for several weeks before the patient sees a doctor. Even the unexplained weight loss caused by certain lymphomas may continue for months before the patient seeks medical help.