Lymph glands or nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body as part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system in the human body is responsible for fighting infections and diseases. Cancers that originate from the lymph nodes are called lymphoma. It begins in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells found in the lymph nodes.
There are 800 lymph nodes in the human body and 300 in the head and neck. Lymphoma is the third most common cancer developing in the neck and head.
Below, you will find everything you need to know about cancer lymph nodes in neck, its causes, treatment, and prevention.
What Is Neck Lymph Node Cancer?
The presence of malignant cells in the lymph nodes in the neck region is referred to as neck lymph node cancer, sometimes known as neck lymphoma or neck lymphadenopathy. As vital components of the immune system, these lymph nodes filter lymph fluid and collect harmful substances such as cancer cells.
Some cancerous cells can spread to different parts of the body after separating from the main tumour. They can end up at the lymph nodes by passing through the lymphatic or circulatory systems.
Cancer lymph nodes in neck typically originate within the lymph nodes of the neck but may result from the spread of cancer cells from another primary site in the body.
Types Of Neck Lymph Node Cancer
Lymphoma is divided into two main sub-types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Hodgkin lymphoma (Hodgkin disease) is a cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are part of the body’s immune system.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (sometimes called NHL or just lymphoma) is a cancer that starts in cells called lymphocytes. While the primary target of lymphoma is the lymph nodes, it can also develop in non-lymph node tissues. It is called extranodal lymphoma. Extranodal Hodgkin lymphoma is a relatively uncommon occurrence.
A significant proportion, approximately 25 percent of non-Hodgkin lymphomas display extranodal involvement. Within non-Hodgkin lymphomas, around 33 percent are localised in the head and neck region. Extranodal lymphoma may develop in various tissues, including the tonsils, thyroid gland, parotid gland, tongue, nasal cavity, and paranasal sinuses.
How Does Cancer Affect The Lymphatic System?
Cancer spreads from its initial (primary) site to various regions within the body. Cancerous cells detach from a tumour and reach different areas through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system.
If they opt for the lymphatic system, they may reach lymph nodes. Most of these escaped cancer cells get killed or eliminated before they can grow elsewhere. A few may settle in a new area, initiate growth, and give rise to fresh tumours.
For cancer cells to successfully spread to new body parts, they must undergo several transformations. They must be able to detach from the original tumour and adhere to the outer wall of a lymph or blood vessel. Following this, they must move to the vessel wall. It allows them to circulate to another organ or lymph node with the blood or lymph.
When cancer metastases to lymph nodes, it typically targets nodes closer to the primary tumour. These nodes actively engage in filtering out or eliminating the cancer cells.
Common Causes for Cancer Lymph Nodes in Neck
The common causes for cancer lymph nodes in neck are as follows:
- Being male, males are more likely to get this condition.
- Age, particularly individuals aged 60 and older are at higher risk.
- A weakened immune system can make individuals more susceptible to lymph node cancer.
- Having a close relative with lymphoma may be a cause of this cancer.
- Infections such as the Epstein-Barr virus and T-cell lymphotropic virus can increase the likelihood of developing neck lymph node cancer.
Risk Factors Of Lymph Node Cancer
Risk factors associated with cancer lymph nodes in neck include:
- Exposure to radiation, benzene, certain insecticides & herbicides
- Presence of certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and celiac disease
- Being native to America
Common Symptoms Of Lymph Node Cancer
While swelling is a common symptom of cancer lymph nodes in neck, there are more. However, not all swellings are associated with lymphoma. Let’s know about the other symptoms-
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Breath shortness
- Night sweats
- Sudden weight loss
- Itchy skin
Different Stages Of Lymph Node Cancer
Cancer experts use a cancer staging system to determine how much cancer is in the body. One commonly used staging system is called TNM. TNM refers to Tumor (T), Nodes (N), and Metastasis (M). It determines the extent of cancer in the body, focusing on tumour size, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis. Each letter gets a number based on what the doctors observe.
If there’s no cancer in the nearby lymph nodes, N gets a value of 0. If there is cancer in nearby or distant nodes, N gets a number that goes up based on the number of affected nodes, the size of the cancer, how large the nodes are and where they are located. The numbers for T, N, and M are added together. A higher sum means more advanced cancer. A lower TNM score often means it might be easier to treat.
The lymphoma stage indicates as follows.
Stage 1: Cancer is localised to one lymph node region or organ.
Stage 2: Cancer involves two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm.
Stage 3: Cancer affects lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm, both above and below it.
Stage 4: Cancer has spread to one or more tissues or organs outside the lymphatic system, such as the liver, lungs, or bone marrow.
Diagnostic Procedures
Once the oncologists have reviewed your medical history, the below procedures can be followed for diagnosis.
- The affected area will be checked using their fingers to feel the lymph nodes. They’ll see if the nodes are bigger than normal and if they feel tender, hard, or warm.
- Blood tests are performed to check the underlying issue.
- Medical imaging tests, like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasound tests are performed. Different technologies create detailed pictures of the inside of the body.
- A biopsy can also be done. A small piece of lymph tissue or the whole lymph node is removed for examination under a microscope.
Lymph Node Cancer Treatment
Treating cancer lymph nodes in neck varies depends on factors like the tumour size, location, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Surgery might be used for cancers that have spread to lymph nodes. Other treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
If cancer has spread to lymph nodes, there’s a higher chance of it coming back after surgery. In such cases, doctors may suggest chemotherapy or radiation after surgery.
What Are The Side Effects Of Treatment?
When lymph nodes are removed, it can block the normal flow of lymph fluid in that area. Without the nodes, the fluid might get stuck, causing lymphedema. It can last a lifetime. The risk of lymphedema increases if more lymph nodes are removed.
However, removing lymph nodes during cancer surgery will not likely weaken the immune system. It is spread throughout the body and is not solely dependent on these nodes.
Also, certain treatments may impact fertility, potentially inducing early menopause in women. Late effects, which are health issues emerging months or years post-treatment, can arise. To ensure timely detection of any issues, consult your healthcare professional to determine the most effective health monitoring strategies.
Prevention Tips For Lymph Node Cancer
The prevention tips for lymph node cancer are listed below:
- Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation
- Maintain healthy BMR
- Avoid things that increase hepatitis C and AIDS risk
- Follow a healthy diet
- Avoid smoking
- Get screened after the age of 50 regularly
- Be more physically active
How Punarjan Ayurveda Treats Neck Lymph Node Cancer?
Punarjan Ayurveda has a comprehensive approach to helping people with Non-Lymphoma Hodgkin. We don’t just rely on regular medical care. Personalised treatment plans are created for each patient. Our experienced ayurvedic practitioners use herbal medicines. They recommend lifestyle changes to make the body heal and improve overall well-being.
We start by understanding each person’s unique body type. We make special medicines using natural metals and organic plants. Some of these medicines help boost the immune system and detoxify the body. Punarjan Ayurveda helps recover from Non-Lymphoma Hodgkin’s disease and promotes a positive mindset.
We believe in the body’s power to heal naturally. Our approach combines science and spirituality to support you.
Now, let’s look at some methods to treat Lymphoma –
Ayurvedic Medicines– Ayurvedic medicines balance your body’s doshas. They contain ingredients like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Guduchi, which slow down the growth of cancer cells.
Improves Digestive Power: Our treatments ignite your inner digestive power (Agni). This helps your body effectively break down and absorb nutrients.
Special Elixirs – Rasayan elixirs like Chyawanprash boost the performance of enzymes in our body. These enzymes, like CAT, SOD, GST, QR, etc., prevent cancer development and tumours.
Conclusion
Understanding cancer lymph nodes in neck, their causes, types, and treatment options is crucial for effective management. Cancer lymph nodes in neck, encompassing both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, presents unique challenges and requires tailored treatment approaches.
Alternative approaches like those offered by Punarjan Ayurveda provide holistic treatment options, emphasising the body’s natural healing abilities. Through a combination of Ayurvedic medicines, lifestyle modifications, and spiritual support, individuals can navigate their journey with lymphoma towards improved well-being and vitality.
Disclaimer
FAQs
How Is Lymph Node Cancer In The Neck Treated?
Systemic chemotherapy, with or without radiation therapy, is used to treat cancer lymph nodes in neck. Surgery is another common treatment option.
Do Removing Lymph Nodes Stop Cancer From Spreading?
Removing lymph nodes can reduce the risk of cancer spreading to other areas, but it doesn’t guarantee prevention, as cancer may have already metastasised. Other factors like tumour aggressiveness and cancer stage also influence the likelihood of spread.
What Is The Best Treatment For Lymph Node Metastasis?
Chemotherapy, radiation, small molecule drug inhibitors, CAR-T cells, and antibodies are popular treatment methods. A combination of these techniques can also be considered.
What Kills Cancer Cells In Lymph Nodes?
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are commonly used to kill cancer cells in lymph nodes. Additionally, targeted therapy and immunotherapy may be employed to specifically attack cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Removing Lymph Nodes?
Removing lymph nodes can lead to complications such as lymphedema, increased risk of infection, and impaired immune function, which may affect the body’s ability to fight infections and manage fluid balance.
How Painful Is Lymph Node Removal?
After surgery, many people may experience pain. It often gets better as the wound heals. Some individuals might continue to feel pain, especially if lymph nodes are taken out from the neck.
