Is fever and weight loss related to non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Question

Hi doctor,

What is non-Hodgkin lymphoma? What can cause NHL? Which age group is more commonly affected? Can NHL occur without any family history? Is all the left supraclavicular (Virchow's node) node associated with lymphoma? Can a single small but persistent lymph node be enough for NHL? Why is my lymph node not getting bigger in size?

How is fever related to cancer or NHL? Can NHL or lymphoma or any other form of cancer occur without any symptoms such as fever, weight loss or night sweats? In the NHL, the lymph node can develop inside the chest, in the abdomen and on the inner side of the body. How can we feel them? What kind of symptoms occur if they are in? Please explain.

In the NHL, how can one know the swelling of the stomach, spleen, and liver, as it is not visible outside? Can a cough occur in NHL? In NHL or lymphoma, can we get any clue from the change (decrease or increase) in the level of blood cells, such as WBC and platelets?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a group of lymphomas that does not fall into the classification of Hodgkin's lymphoma. Anything that does not fit the criteria of Hodgkin's is NHL.

NHL can be caused by a viral infection like Epstein-Barr Virus, radiation, immune-modifying drugs, etc. Any age group can be affected, but particularly those above 50 years. Yes, it can occur even without any previous family history.

No, it can rise in infections from surrounding areas or even another type of cancer. Virchow's node is one of the classic sites for gastric cancer metastasis to that node.

A single lymph node, even if persistent, is not a classical sign of lymphoma. Usually, an increase in size, multiple lymph nodes involvement and at two or more sites, like axillae, femoral, etc. A single site, single lymph node that is persistent is usually due to chronic inflammation.

Due to chronic inflammation over a long time, intra-lymph node fibrosis (just like scar tissue) must have formed, which would not allow it to reduce in size. So, it will remain the same size. If there is no change in size, then nothing to worry about.

Cancer, particularly NHL, can reduce immunity and increase the possibility of infection and hence fever. Also, in cancers, increased metabolism occurs, which can result in increased metabolic rate and hence sweating or fever can be seen. Night sweats particularly indicate cancer or NHL.

Usually, some symptoms will be found. Depending on the location, the involvement of other areas and the stage, symptoms can vary. This way, all cancers start small and are not detectable, even by the best methods.

Internal lymph nodes require radiological investigation, such as CT and ultrasound, for evaluation. Based on symptoms, if any, it can be evaluated. If doubtful, get a lymph node biopsy of the Virchow's node to confirm.

You can find spleen and liver enlargement by radiological investigations or deep palpation. The stomach requires a definite ultrasound. A cough is not a classic symptom of NHL, and usually, in lymphomas, blood levels are not affected.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.