What is Mediastinal Lymphoma?
Mediastinal lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates from the part of the lymphatic system located in the mediastinum.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a large network of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and lymphatic organs. These lymph vessels run throughout the body and help drain tissues, transport fat, and destroy harmful viruses and bacteria that attack the body. The lymphatic system helps to transport infection-fighting cells called lymph nodes throughout the body, as a result, lymphoma can develop anywhere in the body along with the lymphatic system. The most common sights for the development of lymphoma are lymph nodes, thymus, spleen, mediastinum, abdomen, liver, bone marrow, and skin.
What is Mediastinum?
The mediastinum is a space in the thorax that contains the heart, thymus gland, portions of the esophagus trachea, and other structures.
Disease Epidemiology
Mediastinal lymphomas are responsible for approximately 15% of all lymphoma masses of mediastinal origin. It is approximately responsible for 45% of all mediastinal lymphomas in children.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however, certain hereditary and genetic mutations are considered responsible for the development of mediastinal lymphoma.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Cough
- Difficulty in breathing
- Pain in the chest
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;
- Imaging techniques like Chest X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy (tumour biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for histopathological examination)
- Sputum cytology
- USG-guided fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
Surgical resection of the tumour is the main treatment. Other treatment options are chemotherapy and radiation therapy in the advanced stages of the disease.
What Support can we Give for Mediastinal Lymphoma?
Mediastinal Lymphoma is 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 Mediastinal Lymphoma, 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:
