Cancer is a complex and often daunting subject, especially when it comes to understanding the various types. Among the many forms of cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma are two that are frequently confused due to their similarities. Both are blood cancers, but they affect the body in distinct ways.
In this article, Dr Kevin Tay, Senior Medical Oncologist of OncoCare Cancer Centre, will break down the differences between leukemia and lymphoma to help you better understand these diseases.
What is Leukemia?
Leukemia is the most widely recognised form of blood cancer. This cancer starts in the blood and bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. It primarily affects white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. In leukemia, the bone marrow produces an excessive amount of abnormal white blood cells, which do not function properly.
Types of Leukemia
Leukemia is classified into four main types:
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): This type progresses rapidly and affects lymphoid cells. It is the most common type of leukemia in children but can also occur in adults.
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): AML also progresses quickly and affects myeloid cells. It is more common in adults but can occur in children.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): This type progresses more slowly and typically affects adults over the age of 55.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): CML also progresses slowly and mainly affects adults. It is associated with a genetic mutation known as the Philadelphia chromosome.
Symptoms of Leukemia
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent infections
- Unexplained weight loss
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Bone pain or tenderness
- Swollen lymph nodes
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow uncontrollably.
Lymphoma ranks as the fourth most common cancer among males and the fifth most common among females in Singapore. Between 2017 and 2021, over 5,000 cases were reported in the country.
Types of Lymphoma
Lymphoma is broadly categorised into two main types:
- Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): This type is characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, a specific type of abnormal cell. Hodgkin lymphoma is relatively rare and tends to be more treatable.
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): NHL includes a diverse group of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells. It is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma and can vary greatly in how it behaves and responds to treatment.
Symptoms of Lymphoma
Common symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes (often painless)
- Fever and night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Itchy skin
- Shortness of breath or chest pain (if lymph nodes in the chest are affected)
Key Differences Between Leukemia and Lymphoma
Understanding the differences between leukemia and lymphoma is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Origin and Affected Areas
- Leukemia starts in the bone marrow and primarily affects the blood and bone marrow.
- Lymphoma originates in the lymphatic system, affecting lymph nodes and other organs like the spleen.
Cell Types Involved
- Leukemia involves abnormal white blood cells (myeloid or lymphoid cells).
- Lymphoma involves abnormal lymphocytes.
Progression and Symptoms
- Leukemia can be acute (rapid progression) or chronic (slow progression), with symptoms related to bone marrow dysfunction.
- Lymphoma typically presents with swollen lymph nodes and systemic symptoms like fever and night sweats.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
- Leukemia is typically diagnosed through blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing.
- Lymphoma is diagnosed via biopsy of an affected lymph node or other tissues, along with imaging tests like CT scans and PET scans.
Treatment
- Leukemia treatment often involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes bone marrow transplants.
- Lymphoma treatment can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplant.
Both Leukemia and Lymphoma Are Different
While leukemia and lymphoma are both cancers of the blood, they differ significantly in origin, affected cell types, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed with either of these cancers, it’s crucial to consult with a Medical Oncologist who specialises in hematologic malignancies. Early detection and specialised care can make a significant difference in outcomes.
“Expert knowledge means better care for cancer"
Contributed by:
Dr Kevin Tay
MBBS (Singapore)
ABIM Int. Med (USA)
ABIM Med Onc (USA)
FAMS (Medical Oncology)
