Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, i.e. the germ-fighting network of the body. The system comprises lymph glands, bone marrow, spleen, and thymus gland. Lymphoma can be categorized into two types: Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Identifying the best treatment for the disease depends upon the type. So, it is important to recognize the early signs and stages of lymphoma for effective treatment.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Lymphoma
The early signs of lymphoma and its various stages are closely linked. You must try to recognize these signs for timely detection of the disease.

• Persistent fatigue
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpits
• Night sweats
• Itchy skin
• Unexplained weight loss
• Shortness of breath

Stages of Lymphoma
The different stages for lymphoma are same for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The four main stages are

• Stage 1
  This stage means that the lymphoma has only affected one group of lymph glands. This lymph gland can be anywhere in the body. However, most commonly, it is in the diaphragm or the neck.
  Stage 1E
  Stage 1E is used to denote that the lymphoma originated in a single body organ outside the body’s lymphatic system. This is also known as Extranodal lymphoma.
• Stage 2
  Stage 2 implies that the lymphoma is there in two or more groups of lymph glands. Again, these glands can be anywhere in the body. However, to be diagnosed with stage 2, the affected lymph glands must all be on the same side of the diaphragm.
  Stage 2E
  This means the lymphoma that originated in one of the body organs outside the lymphatic system has now spread to one or more groups of lymph nodes on the same side of the diaphragm.
• Stage 3
  This stage implies that the affected lymph glands are present on both sides of the diaphragm.
• Stage 4
  This is the final stage. It implies that lymphoma that originated in one of the lymph glands has now metastasized and spread to at least one organ outside the body’s lymphatic system. This can be the liver, lungs, bones or the bone marrow.

It must be noted that thymus and spleen are considered as parts of the lymphatic system. So, if the lymphoma spreads to these organs, it does not count as stage 4.

After evaluating the early signs and stages of lymphoma, your doctor may also give you one of the two letters: A or B. Letter A means you don’t experience the following symptoms:

• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit

Letter B means that you have one or more of these symptoms.

It is important to look for signs of lymphoma. If you experience any, you must see your doctor, who will help to diagnose the early signs and stages of lymphoma.