Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin’s

Definition Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the immune system, characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal lymphocytes. It is one of the most common types of cancer and has a wide range of subtypes.

Causes / Etiology The exact cause of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not known, but several risk factors have been identified. These include:

• Infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, Human T-cell leukemia virus)
• Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA2, ATM)
• Radiation exposure
• Chemical exposure (e.g., pesticides, solvents)
• Family history
• Age (most common in people over 60)
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)

Types or Classification There are several types of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, each with distinct characteristics. Some of the main types include:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL): a common and aggressive type
• Follicular lymphoma: a slow-growing type
• Mantle cell lymphoma: a rare and aggressive type
• Peripheral T-cell lymphoma: a rare and aggressive type
• Burkitt lymphoma: a rare and aggressive type
• Cutaneous lymphoma: affects the skin
• Marginal zone lymphoma: a slow-growing type

Pathology The development of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma involves several steps: → Step 1: Genetic mutations occur in lymphocytes, leading to uncontrolled growth. → Step 2: Lymphocytes accumulate in lymphoid tissues (e.g., lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow). → Step 3: Lymphocytes proliferate and form tumors. → Step 4: Tumors invade surrounding tissues and can spread to other parts of the body.

Clinical Features General features:

• Enlarged lymph nodes (most common)
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Chills
• Night sweats

Specific features:

• Skin lesions (in cutaneous lymphoma)
• Abdominal pain (in gastrointestinal lymphoma)
• Coughing (in pulmonary lymphoma)

Complications Acute complications:

• Infections (e.g., pneumonia, sepsis)
• Bleeding (e.g., anemia, thrombocytopenia)
• Organ failure (e.g., liver, kidney)

Chronic complications:

• Secondary cancers (e.g., leukemia, myeloma)
• Organ damage (e.g., heart, lungs)
• Fatigue and weakness

Diagnosis / Investigations Routine tests:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood chemistry tests
• Imaging studies (e.g., CT, MRI, PET scan)

Special tests:

• Biopsy (to confirm cancer type)
• Immunohistochemistry (to identify cancer cells)
• Genetic testing (to identify mutations)

Management General management:

• Supportive care (e.g., pain management, nutrition)
• Antiviral and antibacterial medications (to prevent infections)

Modern treatment:

• Chemotherapy (e.g., rituximab, cyclophosphamide)
• Radiation therapy (e.g., external beam radiation)
• Targeted therapy (e.g., ibrutinib, idelalisib)
• Stem cell transplantation (in some cases)

Dietary advice:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoid processed and high-sugar foods
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

Homeopathic Therapeutics

1. Arsenicum album

• Symptoms: fatigue, weakness, and weight loss
• Characteristics: restlessness, anxiety, and irritability
• Indications: lymphoma with fever, chills, and night sweats
• Dose: 30C, 3 times a day

2. Lycopodium Clavatum

• Symptoms: abdominal pain, bloating, and gas
• Characteristics: anxiety, restlessness, and irritability
• Indications: abdominal lymphoma with pain and discomfort
• Dose: 30C, 3 times a day

3. Phytolacca Decandra

• Symptoms: lymphadenopathy, fatigue, and weakness
• Characteristics: pain, burning, and inflammation
• Indications: lymphoma with lymphadenopathy and pain
• Dose: 30C, 3 times a day

4. Thuja Occidentalis

• Symptoms: skin lesions, itching, and burning
• Characteristics: pain, inflammation, and irritation
• Indications: cutaneous lymphoma with skin lesions
• Dose: 30C, 3 times a day

5. Carcinosin

• Symptoms: cancer symptoms (e.g., pain, weakness)
• Characteristics: restlessness, anxiety, and irritability
• Indications: cancer with various symptoms
• Dose: 30C, 3 times a day