From the Guidelines
Lymphoma symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, and itchy skin, and patients should be carefully asked for the presence of B-symptoms, such as fever, night sweat, and weight loss, as stated in the study 1. The swollen lymph nodes are typically painless and may appear in the neck, armpits, or groin. Patients might also experience persistent coughing, chest pain, or breathing difficulties if lymphoma affects the chest area.
- Abdominal pain or swelling can occur when lymphoma involves abdominal lymph nodes or organs.
- Some patients report decreased appetite and increased susceptibility to infections. These symptoms vary depending on the type of lymphoma (Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin) and its location in the body. Many of these symptoms overlap with other less serious conditions, which can delay diagnosis. The symptoms result from abnormal growth of lymphocytes (white blood cells) that accumulate in lymph nodes and other tissues. If you experience persistent swollen lymph nodes or several of these symptoms, especially night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fever (known as B symptoms), consult a healthcare provider promptly for proper evaluation, as most patients with HL (>60%) initially observe enlarged cervical lymph nodes, as mentioned in the study 1. It is essential to note that the diagnosis of HL always requires a lymph node biopsy, and the staging is based on the Cotswolds classification, a modification of the Ann Arbor staging system, as stated in the study 1. The presence of B-symptoms, such as fever, night sweat, and weight loss, is a critical factor in the diagnosis and staging of lymphoma, and patients should be carefully evaluated for these symptoms, as recommended in the study 1.
From the Research
Lymphoma Symptoms
- The symptoms of lymphoma typically present as painless adenopathy, with systemic symptoms of fever, unexplained weight loss, and night sweats occurring in more advanced stages of the disease 2.
- These symptoms can vary depending on the subtype of lymphoma, with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma having different treatment plans and prognoses.
- The presence of "B" symptoms, such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss, can also impact the prognosis and treatment of lymphoma 3, 4.
Common Symptoms
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Painless adenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
- Fatigue
- Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)
- Peripheral sensory neuropathy (nerve damage)