Follicular Lymphoma: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
In follicular lymphoma, white blood cells called lymphocytes are affected. Lymphocytes are vital to the immune system. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, also known as follicular lymphoma, is a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system and are common. Follicular lymphoma is the most common subtype.
Causes of Follicular Lymphoma
The exact cause of follicular lymphoma is unknown, but some factors may increase the risk of developing it. These include:
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Age: Follicular lymphoma is more common in older people, with an average age of diagnosis of 60 years.
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Gender: Follicular lymphoma is slightly more common in people assigned male at birth (AMAB) than those assigned female at birth (AFAB).
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Immune system disorders: Some conditions that affect the immune system, such as HIV, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or celiac disease, may increase the risk of follicular lymphoma.
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Exposure to radiation or chemicals: Some studies have suggested that exposure to high doses of radiation or certain chemicals, such as pesticides or solvents, may increase the risk of follicular lymphoma.
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Infections: Some viral or bacterial infections, such as hepatitis C, Helicobacter pylori, or Epstein-Barr virus, may be linked to follicular lymphoma.
Symptoms of Follicular Lymphoma
Follicular lymphoma may not cause any symptoms in the early stages, and many people are diagnosed by chance when they have a blood test or a scan for another reason. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
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Swollen lymph nodes: The most common symptom of follicular lymphoma is painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, groin, or abdomen. The swollen nodes may come and go over time.
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B symptoms: These are general symptoms that may indicate a more advanced stage of the disease. They include fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and itching.
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Other symptoms: Depending on where the cancer has spread, other symptoms may include shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bleeding, bruising, or infections.
Diagnosis of Follicular Lymphoma
To diagnose follicular lymphoma, the doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about the medical history and symptoms. The doctor may also order some tests, such as:
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Blood tests: These can check the number and type of blood cells, the level of certain proteins, and the presence of antibodies or genetic markers that may indicate follicular lymphoma.
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Tests of the blood can reveal the number and type of blood cells, the level ofy involves taking a small sample of tissue from a swollen lymph node or another affected organ and examining it under a microscope. The biopsy can also determine the type and grade of the lymphoma, which are important factors for choosing the best treatment.
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The results of imaging tests can be used to determine whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Imaging tests include X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans.
Treatment of Follicular Lymphoma
The treatment for follicular lymphoma depends on several factors, including the stage, grade, symptoms, and overall health of the patient. The primary goals of treatment are to control the disease, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
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If you have follicular lymphoma that has low-grade or indolent symptoms and no or mild symptoms, this approach may be suitable for you. Watchful waiting involves monitoring your condition without giving any active treatment until the symptoms or the disease worsen.
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In chemotherapy, drugs are used to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously.
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A drug called immunotherapy stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy or targeted therapy.
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Targeted therapy involves using drugs that target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. It may be given alone or combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy. It can be delivered orally or intravenously.
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During radiation therapy, high-energy rays or particles are used to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors. Radiation therapy may either be given externally or internally.
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This procedure involves replacing the diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from either the patient or a donor. Those with high-risk or relapsed follicular lymphoma who can tolerate high-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be eligible for stem cell transplants.
Prevention of Follicular Lymphoma
There is no known way to prevent follicular lymphoma, but some lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of developing it or improve the outcome of the treatment. These include:
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Avoiding exposure to radiation or chemicals that may cause cancer
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Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
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Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity
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Exercising regularly and staying physically active
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Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
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Getting regular check-ups and screenings for infections or other health problems
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Following the doctor’s advice and taking the prescribed medications as directed
