Causes of Malignant Lymphoma

Written by Peng Li Bo
Oncology
Updated on May 22, 2025
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Currently, the causes of lymphoma are not clear. It may be related to genetic mutations, infections, pathogens, or other viruses. Additionally, exposure to radiation or chemical drugs, and its association with autoimmune diseases, are also relevant factors. Clinically, there are specific types of lymphoma, such as mucosa-associated lymphoma related to the stomach lining, which is notably associated with Helicobacter pylori infections. Another type is related to infection with the Epstein-Barr virus.

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Written by Liu Liang
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early symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma

Malignant lymphoma refers to a type of malignant tumor that originates in the lymph nodes or extranodal organs or tissues. Therefore, Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of lymphoma. Its early symptoms mainly start with the enlargement of superficial lymph nodes throughout the body, with 90% of Hodgkin's lymphoma patients presenting with enlargement of superficial lymph nodes as an early symptom when they seek medical advice. The most common superficial lymph nodes are those above the collarbone and in the neck, but enlargement can also occur in the axillary and inguinal lymph nodes, which are also some of the more common early clinical manifestations seen in practice.

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What are the symptoms of lymphoma spread?

The symptoms of lymphoma spread depend primarily on its original location. Generally, the most common site of origin is in the neck. Spread means that it has moved to other areas, so it may have spread to the armpits, groin, or popliteal fossa. If there is swelling or a tumor in the lymph nodes in these areas, it manifests as a tumor that can be felt in those specific locations, like in the groin or armpits. Of course, it is possible that it may spread to substantive organs, such as the lungs. If it spreads to the lungs, symptoms might include shortness of breath, coughing, and blood in the sputum.

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Written by Wu Xia
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Is lymphoma contagious?

Current research has not found lymphoma to have a very clear genetic predisposition or familial clustering. This is entirely different from familial breast cancer and colon cancer. Although there are many causes of lymphoma, and it is likely related to certain bacterial and viral infections, the mechanism of tumor occurrence is very complex. Infection is only one of the external factors, and currently, there is no evidence that lymphoma has tendencies for contagion or outbreaks. Therefore, as a relative of a lymphoma patient, the risk of developing lymphoma is not significantly higher than that of the general population, so there is no need for excessive worry.

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Written by Peng Li Bo
Oncology
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Early symptoms of lymphoma

The early symptoms of lymphoma involve the painless enlargement of both superficial and deep lymph nodes, most commonly located in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Of course, lymphoma also presents with systemic symptoms, such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, and skin itching. Since lymphoma commonly occurs in the neck, armpits, and groin, if it develops in other areas, such as the lungs or elsewhere, it may cause respiratory symptoms, including coughing, expectoration, and shortness of breath.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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Are all lymphomas malignant?

Tumors can be benign or malignant; malignant tumors are commonly referred to as cancer. Lymphoma, because it originates from lymph nodes or tissues or organs outside the lymph nodes, is a type of malignant tumor, and thus it is called lymphoma. All lymphomas are malignant; there are no benign lymphomas. However, based on specific pathological types, lymphomas are classified into two main categories: non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma, but all lymphomas are malignant.