What is Follicular Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells that have developed due to the uncontrolled division of lymphocytes (white blood cells). Follicular lymphoma occurs as a result of uncontrolled division of B cells or certain types of B lymphocytes. These blood cells reach out to different regions and organs of the body and can form masses or tumors, such as they can develop a tumor in the bone marrow and lymph nodes.What is B-lymphocyte?
B-lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that fights off pathogens and substances by producing antibodies against these pathogens or substances.What Are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small glands in the human body that filter lymph. Lymph is a clear fluid that circulates in the body through the lymphatic system. The lymph nodes of the lymphatic system help to fight against various infections.Disease Etiology
There is no well-known cause, but certain infections, previous radiation exposure, or certain harmful chemicals are risk factors for developing follicular lymphoma.Signs and symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Fever
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Enlarged or swollen painless slowly growing lymph nodes in the neck armpit, abdomen, and groin
- Shortness of breath where the tumor is spread to the lungs
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Imaging studies such as X-ray, CT-scan, and MRI to detect the site, size, and extent of the metastasis (spread of the tumor)
- CT chest, the scan of bones, and PET-Scan to assess the areas and spread of the tumor
- Lymph node biopsy / Tumor biopsy
- Bone marrow biopsy