Lymphoma and the Lymphatic System Understanding the Connection & the Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
- Jun 2
- 6 min read
When people hear the word "lymphoma," they immediately think of cancer. What many do not realize is that lymphoma is actually a cancer of the lymphatic system itself - a vital network responsible for fluid balance, immune function, and the transportation of lymphatic fluid throughout the body.
Because lymphoma directly affects the lymphatic system, many patients have questions about swelling, lymphatic congestion, and whether manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is safe or appropriate. Understanding how lymphoma develops, how it can affect lymphatic flow, and when lymphatic therapy may be beneficial can help patients make informed decisions alongside their healthcare team.
What Is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is an extensive network of vessels, lymph nodes, organs, and tissues that work together to support immunity and maintain healthy fluid balance.
Key components of the lymphatic system include -
Lymphatic vessels
Lymph nodes
Spleen
Thymus gland
Tonsils and adenoids
Bone marrow
Lymphoid tissues throughout the body
Every day, the lymphatic system collects excess fluid, proteins, cellular waste products, toxins, bacteria, viruses, and immune cells from tissues and transports them back into circulation.
Unlike the cardiovascular system, which has the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system relies on muscle movement, breathing, body position, and the natural contraction of lymphatic vessels to keep fluid moving.
When this system becomes impaired, swelling and fluid accumulation can occur.
What Is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in immune function.
These lymphocytes are found throughout the lymphatic system, which is why lymphoma can develop in lymph nodes and other lymphatic tissues throughout the body.
The two primary categories of lymphoma are -
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of abnormal Reed-Sternberg cells. It often begins in a single group of lymph nodes and tends to spread in a predictable pattern.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma encompasses many different subtypes and is far more common than Hodgkin lymphoma. Some forms grow slowly, while others are aggressive and require immediate treatment.
Because lymphocytes circulate throughout the body, lymphoma can develop in many locations including -
Neck lymph nodes
Armpits
Groin
Chest
Abdomen
Spleen
Bone marrow
Gastrointestinal tract
Skin
Where Does the Name Hodgkin Come From?
The name Hodgkin lymphoma comes from the physician who first described the disease,
Thomas Hodgkin. In 1832, Hodgkin published a paper describing several patients who had enlarged lymph nodes and spleens that appeared to represent a distinct disease process. At the time, medicine had no understanding of cancer at the cellular level, but he recognized that these cases were different from infections or other causes of swollen glands.
Interestingly, his work was largely overlooked for many years. About three decades later, other physicians revisited his observations and confirmed that he had accurately described a unique disease. In recognition of his contribution, the condition became known as Hodgkin's disease, and later the modern term Hodgkin lymphoma was adopted.
Why is there also Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
As scientists learned more about cancers of the lymphatic system, they discovered that there were many different lymphomas.
One particular group shared a unique microscopic feature called a Reed-Sternberg cell—an abnormal giant lymphocyte seen in tissue biopsies. Those lymphomas were classified as Hodgkin lymphoma.
Everything else that was a lymphoma but did not have Reed-Sternberg cells was grouped under the broad category of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Today -
Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for roughly 10% of lymphomas.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma includes more than 70 different subtypes, ranging from very slow-growing forms to aggressive cancers requiring immediate treatment.
An Interesting Historical Note
Thomas Hodgkin wasn't just a physician. He was also known for his humanitarian work, advocacy for Indigenous peoples, opposition to slavery, and efforts to improve public health. In many ways, he was ahead of his time both medically and socially.
For your website article, a simple sentence like this would work well:
Hodgkin lymphoma is named after Dr. Thomas Hodgkin, the English physician who first described the disease in 1832. The condition was later recognized as a distinct cancer of the lymphatic system and named in his honor.
How Does Lymphoma Spread?
One of the unique characteristics of lymphoma is that it originates within the lymphatic system itself.
Cancerous lymphocytes can travel through lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, allowing the disease to spread from one region to another.
This process differs somewhat from other cancers, which often spread to lymph nodes secondarily through metastasis.
As lymphoma progresses, it may involve -
Additional lymph node groups
The spleen
Bone marrow
Liver
Lungs
Other organs
The stage of lymphoma is determined by how extensively the disease has spread throughout the body.
Common Symptoms of Lymphoma
Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of disease, but may include -
Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are often the first sign. These nodes may appear in the neck, underarms, or groin and are often painless.
Fatigue
Persistent fatigue is one of the most common complaints among lymphoma patients.
Night Sweats
Drenching night sweats that require changing clothing or bedding can be a warning sign.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Significant weight loss without intentional dieting may occur.
Fever
Recurring or unexplained fevers are common in some forms of lymphoma.
Itching
Generalized itching may occur, even before diagnosis.
Swelling
Some individuals develop swelling due to lymphatic obstruction caused by enlarged lymph nodes or treatment-related damage.
Can Lymphoma Cause Lymphedema?
Yes.
Lymphoma itself can sometimes interfere with lymphatic flow when enlarged lymph nodes compress or obstruct lymphatic vessels.
Additionally, treatments used to manage lymphoma may contribute to the development of lymphedema.
These treatments can include -
Lymph node removal
Radiation therapy
Surgical procedures
Scarring and fibrosis following treatment
When lymphatic drainage pathways become damaged or blocked, fluid can accumulate in tissues, leading to swelling, heaviness, tightness, and discomfort.
This condition is known as lymphedema.
Can Manual Lymphatic Drainage Spread Cancer?
This is one of the most common concerns patients express.
Historically, cancer was considered an absolute contraindication for manual lymphatic drainage. The concern was that stimulating lymphatic flow could theoretically contribute to the spread of malignant cells.
However, modern understanding has evolved considerably.
Current evidence does not support the belief that properly performed manual lymphatic drainage causes cancer to spread.
Cancer cells spread because of their own biological behavior and disease processes - not because lymphatic fluid is manually encouraged to move.
As a result, many cancer centers and certified lymphedema programs now incorporate lymphatic therapy as part of supportive oncology care when medically appropriate.
That said, treatment decisions must always be individualized.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Safe for Patients With Lymphoma?
The answer depends on several factors.
Active, Untreated Lymphoma
In cases of active lymphoma that has not yet been evaluated or treated, manual lymphatic drainage is generally not performed without physician clearance.
The patient's oncology team should always guide decisions regarding treatment during active disease.
During Cancer Treatment
Patients undergoing chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or other cancer treatments may sometimes benefit from carefully modified lymphatic techniques.
However, treatment should only be performed by a practitioner with advanced training in lymphatic and oncology-related care and ideally with physician approval.
After Cancer Treatment
Many lymphoma survivors experience swelling, fibrosis, reduced mobility, tissue tightness, or secondary lymphedema following treatment.
In these situations, manual lymphatic drainage may be an important component of recovery and symptom management.
Potential Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage After Lymphoma Treatment
For appropriately screened individuals, manual lymphatic drainage may help -
Support fluid movement
Reduce swelling
Improve comfort
Decrease feelings of heaviness
Improve tissue mobility
Assist with fibrosis management
Promote relaxation
Support overall quality of life
It is important to understand that MLD is not a treatment for cancer itself.
Rather, it may be used as part of a comprehensive supportive care plan to address treatment-related symptoms and lymphatic dysfunction.
Why Specialized Training Matters
Not all lymphatic massage is the same.
Patients with a history of lymphoma should seek care from a practitioner with advanced lymphatic education and a thorough understanding of -
Lymphatic anatomy
Oncology precautions
Lymphedema management
Fibrosis treatment
Radiation-related tissue changes
Medical contraindications
A properly trained practitioner understands when treatment is appropriate, when modifications are necessary, and when physician consultation is required.
When Should You Seek Medical Evaluation?
Any unexplained swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider before beginning lymphatic treatment.
Seek medical attention if you experience -
New swollen lymph nodes
Sudden swelling
Persistent swelling
Unexplained weight loss
Night sweats
Fever
Unusual fatigue
Rapid changes in symptoms
These symptoms warrant medical assessment to identify the underlying cause.
The Bottom Line
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system that can affect lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, and immune function throughout the body. Both the disease itself and its treatments can sometimes disrupt normal lymphatic flow, leading to swelling and lymphedema.
While cancer was once considered an absolute contraindication for manual lymphatic drainage, modern research and clinical practice have evolved. Current evidence does not suggest that properly performed MLD causes cancer to spread. However, treatment decisions should always be individualized and coordinated with the patient's medical team.
For lymphoma survivors experiencing swelling, fibrosis, or lymphatic dysfunction following treatment, manual lymphatic drainage may serve as a valuable supportive therapy when performed by a qualified lymphatic specialist. Clearance from your treating physician must be obtained prior to starting MLD.
At Full Circle Vitality, every client receives an individualized assessment and treatment plan designed around their unique medical history, current health status, and goals. If you have questions about lymphoma, lymphedema, or whether manual lymphatic drainage may be appropriate for your situation, we encourage you to discuss your concerns with both your healthcare provider and a qualified certified lymphatic therapist.
