What is Blastic Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma or Leukemia?
Blastic natural killer cell lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It occurs as a result of the rapid, uncontrolled division of the immune system’s natural killer cells. Natural killer cells help to fight against various pathogens and cancer cells. Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms.
Disease Epidemiology
It is rare in white people and more common in people who belong to Asian Ethnicity. It usually develops in the 6th decade of life. It is slightly more commonly prevalent in males than females.
Disease Etiology
There is no well- known cause, however, hereditary and immunodeficiency syndromes such as Klinefelter syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia, autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, HIV infection (human immunodeficiency virus), Epstein-Bar virus infection, and exposure to certain harmful chemicals and drugs are risk factors for blastic natural killer cell lymphoma or leukemia.
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of blastic lymphoma or leukemia include fever, weight loss, night sweats, and bone pain, while other signs and symptoms differ depending on the organ of the body affected.
Signs and Symptoms of Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma /Leukemia of Head and Neck
- Double vision
- Decrease in vision
- Stuffed nose
- Discharge from nose
- Swelling of the eye
- Epistasis ( bleeding from the nose)
- Impaired hearing
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Bad/ foul breath from mouth
- Swelling of the face
- Difficulty in breathing
- Pain in ear
- Hoarse voice
Signs and Symptoms of Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma/Leukemia of Lungs
- Coughdifficulty in breathing
Signs and Symptoms of Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma/Leukemia of Gastrointestinal Tract
- Pain in abdomen
- A feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Early satiety (Feeling full after eating only a small quantity of food)
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis these are
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- LFT’s (Liver function test)
- Renal function tests
- EBV test
- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as USG, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
- Lumbar puncture Test
- Tumor biopsy and histopathology
Treatment
Surgical resection of the tumor (surgical removal of the tumor), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation are the main treatment options.
What Support can we Give for Blastic Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma or Leukemia?
Blastic Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma or Leukemia is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Blastic Natural Killer Cell Lymphoma or Leukemia we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
