About Follicular Lymphoma

What is Follicular Lymphoma?

Follicular lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system. It is a slow-growing cancer that starts in the white blood cells called lymphocytes. It is the second most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms of follicular lymphoma can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

What are the symptoms of Follicular Lymphoma?

The most common symptoms of follicular lymphoma are:

-Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin

-Unexplained weight loss

-Fever

-Night sweats

-Itching

-Fatigue

-Abdominal Pain or swelling

-Shortness of breath

-Coughing

-Loss of appetite

-Painless lumps under the skin

What are the causes of Follicular Lymphoma?

The exact cause of follicular lymphoma is unknown. However, research suggests that certain genetic mutations may play a role in the development of the disease. Additionally, environmental factors such as exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and viruses may increase the risk of developing follicular lymphoma.

What are the treatments for Follicular Lymphoma?

The treatments for follicular lymphoma depend on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for follicular lymphoma. It involves using drugs to kill cancer cells.

2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be used to treat localized areas of the body affected by follicular lymphoma.

3. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells. This type of therapy may be used to treat follicular lymphoma that has not responded to other treatments.

4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. It may be used to treat follicular lymphoma that has not responded to other treatments.

What are the risk factors for Follicular Lymphoma?

1. Age: Follicular lymphoma is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 60.

2. Gender: Follicular lymphoma is more common in men than in women.

3. Family history: Having a family history of lymphoma increases the risk of developing follicular lymphoma.

4. Exposure to certain chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, may increase the risk of developing follicular lymphoma.

5. Immune system disorders: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are at an increased risk of developing follicular lymphoma.

Is there a cure/medications for Follicular Lymphoma?

Yes, there are treatments available for follicular lymphoma. Depending on the stage and severity of the disease, treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, or a combination of these treatments. Your doctor will be able to discuss the best treatment options for you.