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Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune defences. It usually shows first as a painless swollen gland, and many types respond well to treatment.
Causes & risk factors
- Cause is often unknown
- A weakened immune system (e.g. HIV or after transplant)
- Certain infections (Epstein-Barr virus, others)
- Some autoimmune conditions
- Older age (for many types)
- Family history in a minority of cases
Common symptoms
- Painless swollen glands in the neck, armpit or groin
- Drenching night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fevers that come and go
- Tiredness
- Itchy skin
Tests & diagnosis
- Biopsy of an affected lymph node
- Full blood count
- CT or PET scan for staging
- Bone marrow biopsy in some cases
Treatment & management
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy, especially for localised disease
- Targeted or antibody therapy (e.g. rituximab)
- Immunotherapy for some types
- Some very slow lymphomas may just be monitored
When to see a doctor urgently
- A swollen gland that lasts more than a few weeks
- Night sweats, unexplained fevers or weight loss
- Persistent tiredness or unexplained itching
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
They differ in the specific cells involved, seen under the microscope. Hodgkin lymphoma is one distinct type; non-Hodgkin covers many types. Treatment and outlook depend on the exact kind.
Is a swollen gland usually lymphoma?
No — swollen glands are far more often due to infections. But a gland that stays swollen for weeks without an obvious cause should be checked.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.