The word "lymphomas" is spelled with an "s" at the end, even though it is pronounced with a "z" sound. This is because the suffix "-oma" is used to indicate a tumor or growth, and the "s" helps distinguish the word from "lymphoma," which is singular. The pronunciation is written as /lɪmˈfoʊməz/ in IPA, with the stress on the second syllable. Lymphomas are cancers that start in cells of the lymph system, and can be classified into different subtypes based on the type of lymphocyte involved.
Lymphomas are a type of cancer that arise from cells in the lymphatic system, which is an essential part of the body's immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, lymph vessels, the spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Lymphomas specifically affect the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting infections.
There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of large abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma comprises a diverse group of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells.
Lymphomas typically present as painless swelling of lymph nodes in specific areas of the body, such as the neck, armpit, or groin. Other symptoms may include fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, itching, and recurrent infections. Diagnosis is made through a biopsy of an enlarged lymph node or other affected organ.
Treatment for lymphomas depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment modalities include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. Prognosis varies depending on the specific subtype of lymphoma, but advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival rates for many patients.
Regular medical check-ups are recommended for those with a history of lymphoma, as there is a risk of recurrence or development of secondary cancers.
The word "lymphomas" originated from the combination of two Greek words: "lympho" and "oma".
"Lympho" derives from the Greek word "lymphos", which refers to the clear fluid involved in the body's immune system, namely the lymph.
The second component, "oma", is a suffix derived from "ōma" in Greek and "oma" in Latin, meaning a swelling or tumor.
Therefore, "lymphomas" can be understood as tumors or abnormal growths that involve the lymphatic system, which is the basis of lymphoid cancers like Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.