Lymphoma and its symptoms

Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system, which forms part of the body’s immune system. There are many different types of lymphoma, although they are broadly categorised as Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The cause of lymphoma is unknown.

 

Lymphoma is the fifth most common cancer diagnosed by clinicians in the UK and the most common blood cancer overall. It can occur at any age but is most common in people under 30 and over 55. The incidence of lymphoma is increasing year on year but it is not known why this is happening.

 

The most common symptom of lymphoma is a painless lump or swelling, often in the neck, armpit or groin. Other common symptoms include excessive sweating (especially at night), fevers, unexplained loss of weight, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, a cough or breathlessness and persistent itching. If you experience any of these symptoms, please consult your doctor. Read more in the frequently asked questions section.

 

Latest incidence figures available from Cancer Research UK: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/cancerstats/  (accessed October 2011)

 

LYM0134/HomeWeb/2012v3     This page was produced 23.02.2012     Due for revision 01.10.2013