Fact 2: It’s a Type of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
When we hear about lymphoma, we’re usually discussing a group of blood cancers affecting the lymphatic system. This system is a part of our immune response and includes lymph nodes, the spleen, and several other structures. WM falls within this category, but with specific features that make it stand out.
While WM is distinct, it’s essential to understand its place in the larger context of non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). NHL is an umbrella term that includes various lymphomas, with WM being one of them. Specifically, it is classified as a subtype called lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma.
Delving deeper into its characteristics, WM’s distinction arises because of the infiltration of bone marrow by malignant lymphoplasmacytic cells. These cancerous cells interfere with the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, leading to several complications.
One might wonder why the categorization matters. It’s because treatment approaches and prognosis can vary across different lymphomas. Recognizing WM’s exact nature ensures that the treatment is tailored and specific. (2)
