Responding to Lymphoma Detection: What, How Much, and Where?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system's cells. The lymphatic system is a component of the immune system that fights disease. Lymphoma usually affects the lymph nodes, but it can also affect the lungs and bones. Before we learn how to detect lymphoma, let's first look at the symptoms.

Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma symptoms can vary depending on the type of lymphoma and the stage of the disease. Here are some common symptoms of lymphoma:

• Painless swollen lymph nodes located in the neck, armpits and groyne.

• Fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss.

• Abdominal pain or bloating, nausea, vomiting and constipation. This is caused by swelling of the lymph nodes in the abdomen.

• Bone or joint pain.

• Persistent weakness and fatigue.

• Difficulty breathing or coughing. This is caused by swelling of the lymph nodes in the chest.

• Itching or skin rash.

How to Detect Lymphoma

1. Blood test

Several tests are required to determine the type and stage of lymphoma. A blood test is one of the most commonly used tests. Doctors can see blood components such as white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets through blood tests. The following are some examples of common blood tests:

• Complete blood count (CBC)

This blood test determines the number and type of blood cells present in the body. The number of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets is counted in this test.

The CBC test also measures haemoglobin and haematocrit levels. A CBC test can assist doctors in determining whether there are any abnormalities in the blood cell count that may indicate the presence of cancer or other diseases.

• Liver and kidney function tests

This test evaluates liver and kidney function by detecting the level of liver enzymes and creatinine in the blood. High levels of liver enzymes can indicate liver damage, which may occur when cancer spreads to the liver.

Liver and kidney function tests are also useful in assessing a patient's suitability for cancer treatment.

• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

This enzyme is produced by cells in the body and is found in all body tissues. A high level of LDH in the blood can indicate the presence of cancer and its effects in the body. The LDH test is important in determining the stage of lymphoma and providing an indication of the patient's prognosis.

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

ESR or erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells enter the bloodstream. A high level of ESR indicates the presence of cancer in the body. This test is useful in assessing the stage of the lymphoma and the patient's response to treatment.

• HIV and Hepatitis B tests

Another test that can be done is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B test. HIV or hepatitis B patients may have a higher risk of getting lymphoma and this test can help identify that risk.

If a person is confirmed positive for HIV or hepatitis B, the doctor will refer the patient to a specialist for further assessment.

2. Diagnostic Imaging

Imaging is also used to aid in the diagnosis of lymphoma. There are various types of imaging that are widely used. Among them are the following:

• X-ray

This type of imaging employs X-rays to produce images of internal organs. X-rays can help doctors detect changes in organs such as the lungs and bones in the case of lymphoma.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

A CT scan creates three-dimensional images of the body's organs using X-rays and a computer. These scans can aid doctors in detecting changes in organs like the liver, spleen and intestines.

• PET scan

A PET scan entails injecting a radioactive substance into the body and imaging to determine where the substance will accumulate.

Cancer cells are more likely than healthy cells to accumulate radioactive material. 

• PET-CT scan

A PET-CT scan combines PET and CT images. It provides more specific information about the cancer's location in the body.

• MRI scan

An MRI scan creates images of organs in the body by using magnetic fields and radio waves. These scans can assist doctors in identifying changes in organs such as the brain and nerves.

• Bone Scan

A bone scan is an imaging procedure that uses X-rays to detect changes in the bones. This can assist doctors in detecting lymphoma cancer that has spread to the bones.

3. Biopsy

A biopsy is the most precise way of confirming the presence of lymphoma. A biopsy is the removal of tissue or cancer cells from the body and testing them in a laboratory.

Biopsies can be performed in several ways, including fine needle biopsy, open biopsy or laparoscopic biopsy. Doctors may also perform a biopsy on lymph nodes or other lymph organs suspected of having cancer cells.

What Does a Lymphoma Screening Test Cost in Malaysia?

The cost of lymphoma screening tests in Malaysia varies depending on the type of test performed. A blood test to detect tumour markers like LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) can cost between RM40 and RM100.

The cost of PET (positron emission tomography) and CT (computed tomography) scanning varies depending on the part of the body scanned and the medical institution that provides this service, ranging from RM4,000 to RM10,000.

Where Can You Get a Lymphoma Screening Test in Malaysia?

There are various options in Malaysia to get this screening test depending on the type of test and where it is done. It can be done at hospitals or private clinics throughout Malaysia. You can consult a physician or oncologist for advice on which type of test is right for you.

Can Lymphoma Be Treated in Malaysia?

There are several ways to treat lymphoma, including:

• Radiation Therapy - Radiotherapy is used to treat early-stage lymphoma that is limited to one area only.

• Chemotherapy - This is the most common treatment for lymphoma, where strong drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

• Targeted Therapy- Drugs that only have an impact on specific types of body cells are used in targeted therapy to stop the growth of cancer cells.

• Immune Therapy - This therapy aims to stimulate the immune system to identify and kill cancer cells.

• Stem Cell Transfer - Stem cell transplants are used to treat aggressive lymphomas and involve extracting stem cells from the patient's blood and re-implanting them after chemotherapy.

• Healthy Diet - Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help reduce the risk of cancer and improve the patient's health.

• Rest and Exercise - Adequate rest and light exercise can help reduce fatigue and improve the patient's overall well-being.

Prevent Cancer Today!

Regular check-ups are critical for detecting cancer early. If you are at high risk of lymphoma, speak with your doctor about which periodic check-ups are appropriate for you. It is critical to take preventative measures in order to keep our bodies healthy at all times.

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