Why choose Geisinger for lymphoma care?
Every lymphoma diagnosis is unique. That’s why, at Geisinger, your multidisciplinary team combines clinical expertise with advanced technology to give you the most effective care. And because our doctors treat many people with lymphoma every year, they have the experience to handle common as well as rare types.
To keep things convenient for you, our surgeons and oncologists are in 1 location — and you can often see both during the same visit. You can get innovative treatments, including national clinical trials and genetic testing, at our centers right here in Pennsylvania. From your first consultation, you’ll have the specialized guidance and emotional support services you need.
Treatments and services we offer
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FAQs
What are common lymphoma symptoms?
In its early stages, lymphoma may not produce any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can vary based on the stage and type of the disease.
Common symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits, neck or groin area that don’t go away
- Bone pain
- Sudden, unintentional weight loss
- Excessive sweating, especially at night
- Fatigue
- Dry, itchy skin
- Shortness of breath
Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have lymphoma, as they can be signs of other health issues. However, if you notice persistent changes, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Are there different types of lymphoma?
While there are many different types of lymphoma, the 2 main categories are:
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: The most common type of lymphoma, it typically occurs in older adults.
- Hodgkin lymphoma: Also known as Hodgkin disease, this type of lymphoma begins in the white blood cells (lymphocytes) of the immune system.
What are the risk factors for lymphoma?
Certain behaviors, risk factors and genetics can increase your chances of developing lymphoma.
For non-Hodgkin lymphoma, these include:
- Age: While it can occur at any age, it’s most common in adults over 60.
- Impaired immune system: Those with weakened immune systems have a higher risk.
- Environmental exposure: Exposure to certain industrial pesticides, chemicals or previous radiation treatment.
- Infection history: Having certain viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus.
Risk factors for Hodgkin lymphoma include:
- Age: It’s most commonly diagnosed in young adults (ages 20–30) and older adults (over 55).
- Gender: Hodgkin lymphoma is slightly more common in men than in women.
- Family history: Having a close relative who’s been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma increases your risk.
How do doctors diagnose lymphoma?
Because lymphoma symptoms can be subtle, our specialists use advanced technology to make an accurate diagnosis as early as possible. Tests may include:
- Physical examination: Checking for enlarged lymph nodes or other physical signs of illness.
- Bone marrow biopsy: Removing a small sample of bone or bone marrow to check for cancer cells under a microscope.
- Imaging tests: Using CT, MRI and PET scans to see if cancer has spread to other organs or lymph nodes.
- Spinal tap: Collecting a small amount of spinal fluid to see if cancer cells have reached the central nervous system.
Lymphoma care at Geisinger
We combine innovation with a personal touch to help you focus on your healing. We offer:
- Coordinated access: See your specialists in 1 location, often during a single visit. We bring the team to you so you can spend less time traveling.
- Expertise in advanced treatments: Our team treats hundreds of people with lymphoma each year, offering precision radiation, targeted therapies and clinical trials for common and rare subtypes.
- Genetic insights: Specialized research and genetic testing through programs like the MyCode® Community Health Initiative let you better understand your unique risks and guide your personalized treatment plan.
- Comprehensive support: From your first consultation to our cancer survivorship program, we provide the resources and guidance you need to live your healthiest life after treatment.