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Leukaemia and lymphoma are distinct blood cancers that affect thousands of people each year. The India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative and the Global Burden of Leukaemia Study used GBD data to estimate cancer trends across Indian states. In 2016, around 10,500 children and 5,090 teens were diagnosed with cancer, resulting in 1,780 deaths. Leukaemia was the most common childhood cancer (28%), followed by brain and nervous system cancers (27%), many of which were benign. The study outlined cancer and leukaemia trends in India from 1990 to 2019.
Understanding the differences between these two types of blood cancer is essential. By examining their symptoms, risks, and treatment approaches, we can provide more effective support to those affected.
Let’s take a closer look at their key differences.
What is Leukaemia?
Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of immature white blood cells (called blasts).
These abnormal cells crowd out healthy ones, causing fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, bone pain, and fever.
It’s diagnosed through blood tests or a bone marrow biopsy.
The exact cause isn’t fully known, but it’s linked to both genetic and environmental factors such as smoking, radiation exposure, certain chemicals, previous chemotherapy, and family history.
Types of Leukaemia:
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL): grows quickly and is common in children.
- Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): a fast-growing condition that affects adults more.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL): slow-growing, often in older adults.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML): progresses gradually but can become aggressive over time.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that originates in lymphocytes, a specific type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in fighting infections. It often causes swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, tiredness, weight loss, and itching. The swelling is usually painless and, in some cases, can be mistaken for tuberculosis, leading to delays in treatment.
Types of Lymphoma:
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): The most common type.
- B-cell lymphomas
- T-cell lymphomas
- Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): A less common form.
- Classical HL
- Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant HL
Symptoms of Leukaemia and Lymphoma
Symptoms depend on the type of leukaemia. For example, if you have a chronic form of leukaemia, you may not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
And for Lymphoma, there are many symptoms of lymphoma that are similar to less serious health issues. It is essential to understand that having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have lymphoma.
Common Signs And Symptoms Of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Include:
| Leukemia | Lymphoma |
|---|---|
| Frequent Infections | Painless Swelling |
| Pale Skin | Persistent Fatigue |
| Bone/Joint pain or tenderness | High Fever |
| Pain or a full feeling in the left side of your ribs | Drenching Night Sweats |
| Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, underarm, groin, or stomach | Shortness of Breath |
| Enlarged spleen or liver | Unexplained Weight Loss |
Causes of Leukaemia and Lymphoma
There are multiple causes of leukaemia and lymphoma, which are complex conditions. The following are some of those causes presented in a tabular form:
| Parameter | Leukaemia | Lymphoma |
|---|---|---|
| How it Starts | Starts in the bone marrow when immature white blood cells grow uncontrollably and crowd out healthy cells. | Begins in lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell found in the lymph nodes, spleen, and immune system). |
| Main Trigger | DNA changes in blood-forming cells cause them to multiply without control. | Uncontrolled growth of abnormal lymphocytes. |
| Weakened Immunity | People with immunosuppressing conditions or therapies may also face a higher risk. | Organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, or those on long-term immunosuppressants face a higher risk. |
| Family History | A family history of leukaemia may slightly increase the risk, but most cases are not inherited. | Slightly increases risk, but it’s not directly inherited. |
| Autoimmune Connection | The autoimmune link is less clear, although chronic inflammation or immune dysfunction may play a role in this condition. | Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or celiac disease are at a higher risk, as constant immune activation can lead to abnormal cell growth. |
| Infections | Some viral infections (like HTLV-1 or EBV) may contribute but play a minor role compared to lymphoma. | Certain infections are known triggers:
|
Treatment of Lymphoma vs. Leukaemia
Treating lymphoma and leukaemia may sound similar, but the approach differs based on how each disease affects the body.
Here’s how treatment usually differs between the two:
For Leukaemia
Destroy cancerous white blood cells, restore healthy blood production, and maintain remission.
- Chemotherapy: Core treatment, especially multi-drug combinations.
- Radiation Therapy: Sometimes used for brain/spinal involvement.
- Bone Marrow Transplant: For high-risk or relapsed patients.
- Targeted/Immunotherapy: Used in specific leukaemia types.
Side Effects of the treatment include
- Similar side effects (low blood counts, fatigue)
- Risk of infection, organ damage, or recurrence after treatment
For Lymphoma
Kill or control abnormal lymphocytes, achieve remission, and prevent relapse.
- Chemotherapy: Kills fast-growing lymphoma cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Targets specific lymph nodes or affected areas.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system response against cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Attacks only cancer cells with specific mutations.
- Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) Transplant: Replaces damaged cells after intensive therapy.
Side Effects of the treatment include
- Low blood counts, infertility, fatigue.
- Heart/lung issues from certain drugs.
- Possible new cancers after radiation or chemo.
Final Words!
Understanding the difference between lymphoma and leukaemia helps recognise symptoms early and seek the appropriate treatment. Both cancers are serious but often treatable, especially when detected in time and managed with proper medical care. Regular health check-ups and awareness of warning signs can significantly impact recovery and long-term health.
Because treatment for blood cancers can be extensive and expensive, having a reliable health insurance plan is essential. It not only covers hospital stays, chemotherapy, and diagnostic tests but also reduces financial stress, allowing patients and families to focus on healing and emotional well-being. Investing in health insurance today ensures peace of mind and support when it matters most.
Disclaimer:All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
