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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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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The pattern of fever in lymphoma

Fever symptoms are quite common in patients with lymphoma, which we refer to as B symptoms. The pattern of their fevers is primarily low-grade, occurring more frequently in the afternoon or evening. Unlike ordinary bacterial infections, fevers in these patients do not respond well to anti-inflammatory drugs, but they do respond better to steroid treatment for reducing fever. However, if the lymphoma is not under control, their fever will repeatedly recur. Corresponding cooling treatments can reduce the temperature, but the fever will reoccur repeatedly. Only when the lymphoma and tumor are under control will the fever symptoms start to improve.

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Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms and signs

Actually, whether it is Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the symptoms and signs are quite similar. In terms of symptoms, because lymphoma mainly occurs as a lesion in the lymph nodes, it is characterized by superficial, localized enlargement of the lymph nodes. Common locations include the neck, then the armpits, and the groin—areas where lymph nodes are more prevalent. It manifests as a local swelling; simply put, you might feel a lump or a tumor on your neck, which is the most common symptom. Additionally, there are other systemic symptoms including fever, weight loss, night sweats, and itchy skin, among others. As for the physical signs, it mainly refers to palpable superficial lymph node enlargement upon examination.

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Lymphoma rash symptoms

The rash associated with lymphoma is not much different from common rashes; they are both characterized by red papules. However, lymphoma is not an isolated disease. For instance, in patients, one can feel lumps on the neck or upper clavicle area, but they may also exhibit systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, lack of appetite, anemia, chest pain, and other symptoms because it is a systemic disease. Thus, it may cause these systemic symptoms. The rash can also cause itching of the skin.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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Lymphoma registration: which department?

Patients diagnosed with lymphoma can register under the departments of Hematology or Oncology, as both departments can administer chemotherapy. However, radiation therapy can only be conducted in the Oncology department. Each hospital may have slightly different categorizations for departments and diseases. However, for a patient initially presenting with lymphoma, who has not yet been diagnosed and primarily shows symptoms of painless lymph node enlargement, they can register under General Surgery. After completing necessary examinations like an ultrasound, if lymphoma is suspected, a lymph node excision biopsy is usually performed in General Surgery.