Lymphoma Flashcards
What is lymphoma?
Malignancy of the lymphatic system
Name the two types of lymphoma
Hodgkin’s
Non-Hodgkin’s
What percentage of childhood cancers does lymphoma make up?
10%
Describe the causes of lymphoma
Multifactorial Infection - EBV Immunosuppression - treated for other cancers/solid organ transplant Genetics Environment Lifestyle
Describe some presenting features of lymphoma
Visible/palpable mass
B symptoms
Lethargy
Anorexia
List the B symptoms
Weight loss
Fever
Night sweats
Describe what is seen on examination with lymphoma
Non-tender lymphadenopathy
How may mediastinal lymphadenopathy present?
Cough Wheeze Difficulty breathing Superior vena cava obstruction Airway compromise
What investigations would you order for lymphoma?
Bloods - FBC, U&Es, LDH
Imaging - USS, CXR, CT
Biopsy of the lymph nodes
Describe the staging of lymphoma
Staged according to how many groups of lymph nodes or organs are involved
Stage 1 - disease present in single group of lymph nodes or single organ
Stage 2 - Disease present in 2 groups of lymph nodes or organs on the same side of the diaphragm
Stage 3 - Disease is present in lymph nodes or organs on both sides of the diaphragm
Stage 4 - diffuse involvement of lymph nodes and organs such as the liver and bones
Presence of B symptoms - adds B to the stage
Describe the management of lymphoma
Immediate
Mediastinal mass with potential airway compromise - high dose steroids and airway support
SVCO will require stenting of the veins to keep them patent
Tumour lysis syndrome - hyperhydration and allopurinol/Rasburicase
Definitive/long term - chemotherapy and radiotherapy depending on the stage
Which type of lymphoma has the more favourable prognosis?
Hodgkin’s lymphoma
List the complications of lymphoma
Tumour lysis syndrome - Kidney damage and arrythmias
Neutropenia
Sub-fertility
Describe the follow up of lymphoma
Life-long to assess for late complications of the cancer treatment
