Conditions InDepth: Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Main Page | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Screening | Reducing Your Risk | Talking to Your Doctor | Living With Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma | Resource Guide
Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system, the system responsible for fighting infections and draining excess fluid from body tissues. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a general name given to many types of cancer that develop from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in your lymphatic system. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is different from Hodgkin's lymphoma , a related type of cancer.
In general, non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas are divided into two main groups: aggressive (or high grade) and indolent (or low grade). They may also be described by the type of cells found within the lymphoma (mantle cell, T cell, or B cell) or the pattern of grown within the tissue (diffuse or follicular)
The Lymphatic System
Lymphoma occurs when lymph cells, or lymphocytes, divide uncontrollably. Normally, cells divide in a regulated manner. However, if cells keep dividing uncontrollably when new cells are not needed, a mass of tissue forms. This is called a growth or tumor. The term “cancer” refers to malignant tumors, which can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body.
The cause of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is unknown.
According to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, about 66,120 Americans will be diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma this year. It is the fifth most common cancer in the US.
What are the risk factors for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
What are the symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
How is non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosed?
What are the treatments for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
Are there screening tests for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
How can I reduce my risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
What questions should I ask my doctor?
What is it like to live with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
Where can I get more information about non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
References:
Lymphoma. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society website. Available at: http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/all_page?item_id=7030 . Updated September 2008. Accessed October 9, 2008.
Non-hodgkin lymphoma. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/non-hodgkin . Accessed October 9, 2008.
Last reviewed June 2008 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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