Final answer:
Lymphoma, typically a secondary cancer, can also be primary, often affecting lymphocytes within the lymphatic system with types such as Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are vital for effective management and potential cure of this cancer type.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, particularly the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell found within the immune system. There are two major types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), with NHL being more common. Lymphoma often affects either B or T lymphocytes, with about 70,000 cases of NHL and 8,000 cases of HL diagnosed in the U.S. each year.
It is essential to identify the type of lymphoma accurately for appropriate treatment. While the symptoms like fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and weight loss are common, they can also be accompanied by fever and night sweats. Forms of lymphoma such as Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) can be aggressive and fast-growing, but with early detection and proper treatment, up to 70% of patients can be cured. Therefore, research, such as that funded by charity events like bike rides, continues to be important in the fight against lymphoma.
Understanding that lymphoma can originate in the lymph nodes is crucial as it contrasts with other cancers that may spread to the lymph nodes but originate elsewhere.