What Does Lymphoma Feel Like: Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis

29.08.202313.06.2023 by alexxlab

How can you identify lymphoma symptoms. What does a lymphoma lump feel like. When should you seek medical attention for swollen lymph nodes. How is lymphoma diagnosed.

Содержание

Recognizing the Signs: Lymphoma’s Telltale Lumps

Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, often manifests through the development of lumps under the skin. These lumps are typically swollen lymph nodes and commonly appear in the neck, armpit, or groin areas. While not all lumps indicate lymphoma, it’s crucial to understand their characteristics and when to seek medical attention.

What distinguishes a potentially cancerous lymph node? Here are some key factors:

Size: Lymph nodes larger than 1.5 centimeters in diameter (about the size of a pea) are considered enlarged.
Texture: Swollen lymph nodes often feel soft and “rubbery” to the touch.
Mobility: They are usually moveable under the skin.
Pain: In many cases, these lumps are painless.

Is it possible to determine if a lymph node is cancerous by touch alone? Unfortunately, no. Only a medical professional can properly assess the lump, and a biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis.

Beyond the Lumps: Other Lymphoma Symptoms to Watch For

While swollen lymph nodes are a primary indicator, lymphoma can present with various other symptoms. Being aware of these additional signs can help in early detection and prompt medical intervention.

Key Lymphoma Symptoms:

Persistent fever without an apparent cause
Night sweats that soak through clothing
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Itchy skin
Shortness of breath or cough (if lymphoma affects chest lymph nodes)

How common are these symptoms in lymphoma patients? While experiences vary, many patients report at least one of these symptoms in addition to swollen lymph nodes. However, it’s important to note that some individuals with lymphoma may not exhibit any symptoms at all.

The Growth Pattern of Cancerous Lymph Nodes

Understanding the growth pattern of cancerous lymph nodes can provide valuable insights into the nature of lymphoma and its progression. How quickly do these nodes typically grow?

The growth rate of cancerous lymph nodes can vary significantly depending on the type of lymphoma present. In aggressive forms of lymphoma, lumps may appear and grow rapidly, becoming noticeable within days or weeks. Conversely, in slower-growing lymphomas, it might take months or even years for the lumps to become apparent.

It’s worth noting that while a lump may seem to appear overnight, it has likely been growing slowly beneath the surface before becoming visible. This gradual growth underscores the importance of regular self-examinations and prompt medical attention for any persistent or concerning lumps.

Differential Diagnosis: When It’s Not Lymphoma

While lumps under the skin can be a cause for concern, it’s essential to understand that not all lumps indicate lymphoma. Various other conditions can present with similar symptoms, making accurate diagnosis crucial.

Common Causes of Lumps Other Than Lymphoma:

Cysts: Sac-like pockets within or under the skin
Lipomas: Benign growths of fat tissue
Enlarged salivary glands: Particularly under the chin
Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause lymph node swelling
Autoimmune diseases: Certain conditions can lead to lymph node enlargement
Inflammation: Various inflammatory processes in the body

How can you distinguish between these conditions and lymphoma? While it’s impossible to determine the cause of a lump without proper medical evaluation, certain characteristics may provide clues. For instance, lumps caused by infections often resolve within a week or two, while those associated with lymphoma tend to persist and may grow over time.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

Knowing when to consult a healthcare professional about swollen lymph nodes is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. But what specific signs should prompt you to seek medical attention?

Key Indicators to Consult a Doctor:

Persistence: Lumps that don’t disappear within 1-2 weeks
Size: Nodes larger than 1.5 cm in diameter
Multiple locations: Lumps appearing in various areas such as neck, armpit, and groin
Accompanying symptoms: Presence of fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
Rapid growth: Lumps that increase in size quickly
Hardness: Nodes that feel hard or fixed in place

What should you expect during a medical evaluation for swollen lymph nodes? Typically, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, focusing on the size, texture, and location of the lumps. They may also inquire about your medical history and any accompanying symptoms you’ve experienced.

The Diagnostic Process: From Examination to Biopsy

Accurate diagnosis of lymphoma involves a series of steps, beginning with a physical examination and potentially culminating in a biopsy. Understanding this process can help patients navigate their diagnostic journey with more confidence.

Steps in Lymphoma Diagnosis:

Physical examination: The doctor assesses the size, texture, and location of swollen lymph nodes.
Medical history review: Discussion of symptoms, risk factors, and family history.
Blood tests: To check for abnormalities in blood cell counts and other markers.
Imaging studies: Such as CT scans, PET scans, or MRIs to visualize internal lymph nodes and organs.
Biopsy: The definitive test for lymphoma diagnosis, involving the removal of tissue for microscopic examination.

What types of biopsies are used in lymphoma diagnosis? The most common types include:

Excisional biopsy: Removal of an entire lymph node
Incisional biopsy: Removal of a portion of a lymph node or tumor
Fine needle aspiration: Using a thin needle to extract cells from a suspicious area

How long does it take to get biopsy results? While it can vary, results typically take about 7-10 days. This time allows pathologists to thoroughly examine the tissue and perform necessary tests to determine the specific type of lymphoma, if present.

Living with Uncertainty: Coping During the Diagnostic Process

The period between noticing symptoms and receiving a definitive diagnosis can be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. How can patients and their loved ones cope during this challenging time?

Strategies for Managing Anxiety During Diagnosis:

Seek reliable information: Educate yourself about lymphoma from reputable sources, but avoid excessive online research that may increase anxiety.
Communicate openly: Share your concerns with your healthcare team and loved ones.
Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as meditation, exercise, or hobbies.
Prepare questions: Write down questions for your doctor to ensure you get the information you need.
Consider support groups: Connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can provide comfort and practical advice.

What role do mental health professionals play in the diagnostic process? Many cancer centers offer psychological support services to help patients and families cope with the emotional challenges of diagnosis. These professionals can provide valuable tools and strategies for managing stress and uncertainty.

Beyond Diagnosis: Understanding Treatment Options and Prognosis

While a lymphoma diagnosis can be overwhelming, it’s important to remember that many forms of lymphoma are highly treatable. Understanding the potential treatment options and factors affecting prognosis can help patients approach their care with informed optimism.

Common Treatment Approaches for Lymphoma:

Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body
Radiation therapy: Targeting cancer cells with high-energy beams
Immunotherapy: Harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer
Targeted therapy: Using drugs that specifically target cancer cells
Stem cell transplantation: For some aggressive or recurrent lymphomas

What factors influence the choice of treatment? The specific type and stage of lymphoma, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences all play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

How has lymphoma treatment evolved in recent years? Advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies have significantly improved outcomes for many lymphoma patients, often with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Ongoing clinical trials continue to explore new and potentially more effective treatment options.

What is the typical prognosis for lymphoma patients? Prognosis varies widely depending on the type and stage of lymphoma, as well as individual patient factors. However, many forms of lymphoma have high cure rates, and even in cases where a cure is not possible, long-term remission and good quality of life are often achievable.

As research continues and treatment options expand, the outlook for lymphoma patients continues to improve. While the journey from initial symptoms to diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, remember that support is available every step of the way. By staying informed, communicating openly with your healthcare team, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate this journey with confidence and hope.

What Does a Lymphoma Lump Feel Like?

December 5, 2022June 17, 2019 by Dana-Farber Editorial Team

Published: June 17, 2019

Updated: December 5, 2022

Written by: Dana-Farber Editorial Team

Medically Reviewed By: Eric D. Jacobsen, MD

Key Takeaways:

Lumps under the skin — usually in the neck, armpit, or groin area — can be a symptom of lymphoma.
Usually, these lumps are benign (non-cancerous), but it’s important to have them examined by a physician if they don’t go away in a week or two. If appropriate, a doctor may want you to undergo a biopsy of the lymph node.
It is impossible to determine if a swollen lymph node is cancerous by simply touching it.

The most common symptom of lymphoma is the development of lumps under the skin. The lumps themselves are swollen lymph nodes, and they typically appear in the neck, armpit, or groin.

Not all such lumps are a sign of lymphoma. It is normal for lymph nodes to swell as they fill with white blood cells as part of the body’s response to infections, cuts, and scrapes. However, when lymph nodes swell without an infection present, lymphoma can be one of the causes. When lumps occur in the neck, armpit, or groin, and don’t go away in a week or two, it’s important to have them examined by a physician.

What does a swollen lymph node feel like?

Swollen lymph nodes are often painless, moveable, and have a soft, “rubbery” feel to them, says Eric Jacobsen, MD, clinical director of the Adult Lymphoma Program at Dana-Farber. Lymph nodes can swell for a variety of reasons and are considered to be enlarged if they are bigger than 1.5 centimeters in diameter, or slightly larger than a pea. Typically, lymph nodes that are enlarged due to lymphoma are much bigger and can grow to be the size of a grape (or larger).

Can I tell if a lymph node is cancerous by feeling it?

It is impossible to tell if a lymph node is cancerous by simply feeling it. Any persistent, concerning lumps should be examined by a medical professional. During this appointment, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive medical exam that includes physically inspecting accessible lymph nodes, as well as the size of organs that can be felt on a physical exam (such as the spleen and liver).

Following this examination, your doctor may want to perform a biopsy of a swollen lymph node. This biopsy is the only way to conclusively determine if the lymph node is cancerous.

What are the signs that someone has a cancerous lymph node?

Most swollen lymph nodes are not cancerous and are a result of a benign condition. While it is impossible to determine if a lymph node is cancerous without a biopsy, if you are experiencing the following symptoms, you should have the lump(s) examined by a licensed medical professional:

Accompanying symptoms: lumps accompanied by additional symptoms such as fevers, night sweats, and weight loss.
Multiple locations: lumps that appear in multiple locations. Common places include the neck, under the jaw, armpit, and groin.
Multiple lumps: cancerous lymph nodes often appear in groups (although some patients may have a single lump).
Size: lumps that are greater than 1.5 cm in diameter.
Persistent: lumps that do not disappear within a week or two.

Remember, this is not a complete list of symptoms, and some lymphoma patients might not have any symptoms at all. You know your body better than anyone, and if you notice something concerning, be sure to alert a medical professional.

How quickly will a cancerous lymph node grow?

A swollen lymph node can appear seemingly overnight, but in reality, it may have been growing slowly and then became visible.

If the lymph node is cancerous, the rapidity with which the lump arises and grows depends on the type of lymphoma that is present. In rapidly growing lymphomas, lumps can appear in a matter of days or weeks; in slower-growing types, it can take months or even years.

Remember: Not all lumps are a sign of lymphoma.

What are other possible causes of a lump?

Most of the time a swollen lymph node is not a cause for concern. A variety of conditions, other than lymphoma, can give rise to similar-looking and -feeling lumps. Some turn out to be cysts, which are sac-like pockets within or under the skin. Some are lipomas, benign growths of fat tissue. Some are enlarged salivary glands under the chin.

Even when the lumps are a result of swollen lymph nodes, lymphoma is not always the cause. Such swelling can also be produced by certain autoimmune diseases, infection, inflammation, or can occur without an identifiable cause.

What should I do if I feel a lump?

Jacobsen recommends that individuals promptly see a licensed medical professional when the lumps are accompanied by other potential symptoms of lymphoma, such as a fever, night sweats, or weight loss. If there aren’t other symptoms, and the lumps aren’t growing, they should be checked by a physician within a couple weeks of their appearance.

About the Medical Reviewer

Dr. Jacobsen received his MD from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in 1999. He completed postgraduate training in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital, followed by a fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He joined the division of Hematologic Malignancies in 2005.

What Are the Signs of Lymphoma?

If you’ve noticed a lump in your neck, under an arm, or in the groin area it’s a good idea to monitor it and check for other symptoms of a blood cancer called lymphoma. Many of the symptoms of lymphoma can be similar to a cold, COVID, or the flu. Some of the symptoms of lymphoma can also be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis. If you’ve noticed anything unusual and you’re feeling run down, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor to look into this further.

Not all lymphoma patients get lumps, although it’s an easy symptom to spot. Let’s take a look at the different signs of lymphoma.

Why Does Lymphoma Cause Lumps?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the body’s natural cleansing process called the lymphatic system that’s used to fight infections. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, the spleen, the thymus gland, and bone marrow. You have a lot of lymph nodes in the neck, under the arm, and in the groin areas. When the lymphocytes, the cells used to fight infection, become cancerous they may start to harden and develop lumps in the neck or other areas where there are a lot of lymph nodes.

What Do Lymphoma Lumps Feel Like?

Just because there’s a lump, it does not mean you have cancer! There can be several causes of a swollen lymph node such as a cold, the flu, or a fatty cyst.

A lymphoma lump will tend to be painless and feel rubbery when touched. Swollen lymph nodes caused by other conditions like the flu can make your lymph nodes swell and feel tender when touched. A lymphoma lump also tends to be movable under the skin versus hard and unmovable.

Lumps can appear in multiple locations on the body at once and in groups. These can show up throughout several years or can occur within just a few days.

Other Symptoms of Lymphoma Besides a Lump

There are some other symptoms of lymphoma that can be similar to a virus like the cold or COVID. However, these symptoms won’t just go away like they do when you’re sick.

One of the most common signs of lymphoma is feeling exhausted. Your body is working hard to keep up its immune response. This type of fatigue isn’t fixed by getting a good night’s rest. It’s persistent, ongoing fatigue. Some other common signs and symptoms include:

Difficulty catching your breath
Fever for no explainable reason
Weight loss without explanation
Itchy skin
Night sweats
Decreased appetite
Feeling full or bloated for no apparent reason
Getting frequent infections

If these symptoms are caused by lymphoma, they may vary based on the type of lymphoma. Be sure to discuss any symptoms with your physician to rule out other potential causes, such as menopause or general illness.

The Type of Lymphoma Affects Your Symptoms and Treatments

There are several types of lymphoma, which may affect how you feel. Your diagnosis will tell the oncologist more about which parts of the body are being most affected and how the cancer is spreading. There are over sixty lymphoma subtypes, so identifying the correct type is very important so that the optimal treatment can be prescribed.

There are two broad categories of lymphoma:

Hodgkin Lymphoma

This type of lymphoma is attributed to something called the Reed-Sternberg cell. These are cells in lymph fluid that are found under the nucleus. It often occurs in lymph nodes throughout the body, typically in the upper part, such as the neck, chest, or armpits. It spreads in a progressive pattern that moves from one node to the next. Since progression is predictable, it is fairly easy to treat and catch.

The symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma are also more systemic such as itchiness, rashes, fever, progressive weight loss, etc. If this type of cancer has also affected the bone marrow you’re likely to also notice shortness of breath, frequent infections, and even bleeding problems such as nosebleeds or tiny blood spots under the skin.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

There are many subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Some types grow very slowly, called low-grade, and don’t cause a lot of the system symptoms like fever, infections, and night sweats. Because of this, sometimes non-Hodgkin lymphoma goes undiagnosed for a long time making it harder to treat. Low-grade lymphoma also tends to come and go with treatments needed periodically over the course of the patient’s life.

High-grade non-Hodgkin lymphomas are sometimes also called aggressive because the cells grow faster than low-grade lymphoma. This also means symptoms are more noticeable. Treatments are often successful for these patients because they can be started rather quickly after symptoms begin.

When Should I See a Doctor?

Lumps are a telltale sign and if it’s caused by a virus they should go back to normal in a week or two. If you have a lump that’s not going away or you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, especially in combination with one another, you should set up a visit with your physician.

Typically, a doctor will initially complete a physical exam to look for swelling or anything out of the ordinary. They will also run some blood tests to see if there are signs of lymphoma or another blood condition that could be causing symptoms.

A biopsy (removal) of the lump may be taken and sent to a laboratory. They will analyze the sample to look for any cancerous cells or indications of what it could be.

How is Lymphoma Treated?

Thankfully lymphoma is a highly treatable condition for most patients, especially if caught early. For some patients with low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma, active surveillance is the first step before treatment begins. You’re under the care of an oncologist who will determine when it’s a good time to start treatment so that it’s most effective.

📖 Related Read: Old Wisdom and New Advancements in Lymphoma Treatment

Common lymphoma treatments include surgery to remove the cancerous lump, chemotherapy, and now immunotherapy. Extensive research is underway to expand the use of immunotherapy for lymphoma patients, enabling the patient’s own immune system to fight off the cancer cells.

Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers offers clinical research trials to lymphoma patients who qualify, giving access to the most recent and advanced cancer treatments close to home.

Colorado’s Blood Cancer Experts

Lymphoma should be taken seriously. If you find a lump that doesn’t go away on its own in a week or two, or if you notice other symptoms along with a lump, schedule a doctor’s appointment and be upfront about what you’ve noticed.

The earlier lymphoma is found, the better the treatment outcomes. If you have been diagnosed with lymphoma, request an appointment at one of our Colorado cancer centers. We will guide you through your diagnosis, treatment plan, and how to manage life with cancer.

symptoms and signs, types, causes, diagnosis and treatment of blood cancer

Article content:

General data
Causes
Blood cancers
Manifestations of different forms of the disease
Diagnostics
Features of treatment
Forecasts

General information

The main symptoms of blood cancer arise from mutations in stem cells located in the bone marrow or the lymphatic system. As a result, cells divide uncontrollably and have an abnormal structure, spread throughout the body, disrupting the functioning of organs and tissues. Source:
Taylor J, Xiao W, Abdel-Wahab O
Diagnosis and classification of hematologic malignancies on the basis of genetics //
Blood. 2017 Jul 27;130(4):410-423. doi: 10.1182/blood-2017-02-734541. Epub 2017 Jun 9 .

These pathologies are divided into three large groups:

Leukemia – systemic lesions of hematopoiesis and peripheral blood cells. They do not have a specific localization of the tumor focus.
Lymphomas – lesions of the lymphatic system, in which there is one or more pathological foci where cancerous lymphocyte cells are found.
Paraproteinemic hemoblastoses .

Leukemias involve the bone marrow in the process, which in cancer produces immature hematopoietic cells – blasts. Lymphomas affect the lymph nodes and some of the internal organs.

For a long time, pathology can be hidden, and the symptoms of hemoblastoses are similar to each other, so cytogenetic analyzes play a decisive role in diagnosis.

It is possible to completely cure hemoblastoses, including bone marrow transplantation, but this type of cancer is characterized by relapses, the return of all symptoms of the disease due to repeated damage to hematopoietic cells.

Causes of blood tumors

To date, there is no specific established cause for the development of blood cancer. But there are certain risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of their occurrence. Among the possible influences provoking mutations in hematopoietic cells, there are:

various types of ionizing radiation;
presence of hereditary pathologies;
exposure to chemical carcinogens, including certain types of drugs;
exposure to viruses (Epstein-Barr or T-lymphotropic virus generations) Source:
Godley LA, Shimamura A
Genetic predisposition to hematologic malignancies: management and surveillance //
Blood. 2017 Jul 27;130(4):424-432. doi: 10.1182/blood-2017-02-735290. Epub 2017 Jun 9 .

Types of blood cancer

In addition to the division into three large types – leukemia, paraproteinemic hemoblastoses and lymphomas, within each group there is a division into types of tumor processes.

Lymphomas are divided into:

Hodgkin’s (they are also lymphogranulomatosis), which have several subtypes depending on the absence or presence of special cells in the affected tissues – Sternberg-Reed.
Non-Hodgkins . According to the degree of malignancy, they can be low-, medium- or high-malignant. Source:
G.S. Tumyan
Malignant lymphomas //
Clinical oncohematology. Fundamental research and clinical practice, 2009, p.92-97.

Leukemias are divided into two types:

Acute , in which the lesion affects blasts or immature hematopoietic cells.
Chronic , involves mature cells at different stages of formation. For chronic, the appearance of blast crises is typical, when the clinic resembles an acute leukemic process.

In the group of acute leukemias, according to the type of affected cells, there is a division into:

Myeloblastic forms of which should normally form platelets, erythrocytes or leukocytes.
Lymphoblastic forms . Lymphocyte precursors of T- and B-forms are affected. Source:
O.Yu. Baranova
Acute leukemia //
Clinical oncohematology. Basic Research and Clinical Practice, 2012.

In chronic leukemia there is a division into forms:

Lymphocytic leukemia , in which B-lymphocytes are affected and their mutant forms are formed.
Myelocytic leukemia in which the granulocytic series of leukocytes suffers.

In paraproteinemic hemoblastoses, abnormal, monoclonal immunoglobulins, abnormal proteins produced by mutated cells, accumulate in the blood. This type of blood cancer includes:

Myeloma with damage to the generation of lymphocytes, anemia, damage to bone tissue and excretion of paraprotein in the urine, damage to the kidneys.
Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia is a cancer that leads to a sharp change in blood viscosity due to an abnormal amount of protein and damage to organs, including vital ones.
Heavy chain disease with accumulation in the blood of large protein molecules with different chains (usually alpha or gamma), less often delta or mu forms. Possible damage to different parts of the digestive tube, severe baldness with cachexia, fever, lesions of the lymph nodes.

Manifestations of different types of cancer

Signs of hemoblastosis largely depend on the stage of the disease. In cancer, several stages are distinguished with key characteristics:

Initial – malignant cells have just formed, they divide and accumulate, there are no external symptoms and manifestations.
Expanded – typical symptoms of a particular type of blood cancer occur, changes in the blood are the most characteristic.
Terminal – drugs stop helping, the process of normal hematopoiesis is completely suppressed, only cancer cells are formed.
Remission stage (complete or incomplete possible) with restoration of normal parameters in the peripheral blood and in the bone marrow.
Relapse stage – the return of symptoms of the disease with the appearance of cancer cells after a certain period of remission.

The main manifestations of blood cancer are typical for advanced and terminal stages. Although each hemoblastosis may have its own specific symptoms. In general, the following manifestations are typical for them:

frequent colds with complications due to a decrease in the immune functions of the blood;
anemia that does not respond to therapy;
soreness of bones and large joints;
constant weakness, fatigue, pallor.

Leukemia will typically present with anemia and weakness, attacks of dizziness, bruising and hemorrhage in the whites of the eyes, bleeding gums, severe pain in the bones, enlarged liver with spleen.

Lymphoma is also characterized by lymphadenopathy (permanent and pronounced enlargement of the lymph nodes), night sweats, fever due to weight loss, skin itching.

Myeloid disease is characterized by bone fractures, increased thirst with large amounts of urine, kidney damage, anemia and frequent colds, bleeding from wounds and injection sites.

Diagnosis of blood cancer

Diagnosis is based on laboratory tests to detect cancer cells in peripheral blood and bone marrow aspirates.

For acute and chronic leukemia, it is necessary to perform a detailed blood test, study of bone marrow taken during puncture and trepanobiopsy. Supplement the diagnosis of ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, X-ray of the bones of the chest and skull, CT or MRI of the body with the study of lymph nodes. Source:
A.A. Mayboroda
On the issue of diagnosing oncological diseases //
Siberian Medical Journal, 2015, No. 2, pp. 128-134.

For lymphoma, the basis of diagnosis is the study of punctate lymph nodes, the presence of specific cells in the material. The examination is supplemented by X-ray, ultrasound and MRI of the lymph nodes.

For paraproteinemic hemoblastoses, blood and urine tests are important, including detection of specific proteins, MRI or CT, and ultrasound of the abdomen and kidneys.

Features of the treatment of blood cancer

In the treatment of blood cancer, various methods are used that have a fairly high efficiency. Shown:

Surgical treatment for certain types of cancer.
Chemotherapy.
Bone marrow stem cell transplant.
Radiation methods of treatment.
Palliative care (blood, erythrocyte, platelet transfusions).

Chemotherapy is administered with drugs that inhibit the growth of abnormal cells, in the face of massive cell death, a blood transfusion is performed to make up for the lack of one’s own cells. Bone marrow transplantation from a compatible donor helps to restore the synthesis of normal blood cells, normalizes performance. Irradiation is indicated before bone marrow transplantation to completely suppress the activity of cancer cells. Operations are used to remove the affected spleen or lymph nodes.

Treatment of hemoblastoses is accompanied by side effects, so it is necessary to carry out supportive, symptomatic therapy and a long course of rehabilitation.

Predictions

In many respects, the prognosis depends on the type of blood cancer and its stage, the existing comorbidity and the age of the patient. In children with lymphoblastic leukemia, the five-year survival rate is up to 90%, among adults – about 40%.

With myeloid forms, the survival rate of children is up to 70%, the elderly – up to 12%.

The highest survival rates are for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, they reach 50-80%, and for myeloid leukemia – up to 90%. But if blast crises develop, survival prognosis is poor.

Sources:

G.S. Tumyan. Malignant lymphomas // Clinical oncohematology. Basic Research and Clinical Practice, 2009, pp.92-97.
O.Yu. Baranov. Acute leukemia // Clinical oncohematology. Basic Research and Clinical Practice, 2012.
A.A. Mayboroda. On the issue of diagnosing oncological diseases // Siberian Medical Journal, 2015, No. 2, pp. 128-134.
Taylor J, Xiao W, Abdel-Wahab O. Diagnosis and classification of hematologic malignancies on the basis of genetics // Blood. 2017 Jul 27;130(4):410-423. doi: 10.1182/blood-2017-02-734541. Epub 2017 Jun 9.
Godley LA, Shimamura . Genetic predisposition to hematologic malignancies: management and surveillance // Blood. 2017 Jul 27;130(4):424-432. doi:10.1182/blood-2017-02-735290. Epub 2017 Jun 9.

Information verified by an expert

Mikhailov Alexey Gennadievich
operating oncologist, doctor of the highest qualification category, Ph.D.
experience: 22 years

The information in the article is provided for reference purposes and does not replace the advice of a qualified specialist. Do not self-medicate! At the first sign of the disease, you should consult a doctor.