Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma describes a group of cancers arising from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, with varying courses, treatments, and outcomes. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma may develop in any organ associated with the lymphatic system, for example, the spleen, lymph nodes, or tonsils.

The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm or groin. Other symptoms may include unexplained fever, unexplained weight loss and poor appetite, constant fatigue, itchy skin, reddened patches on the skin. However, such symptoms are non-specific and may be caused by other, less serious conditions.

Diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

The diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma requires a biopsy of the involved tissue. The numerous types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are typically grouped into three distinct categories based on their aggressiveness: indolent or low-grade, aggressive or intermediate-grade, and highly aggressive or high-grade.

Treatment of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

The treatment of indolent or low-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma may initially involve a period of observation, while aggressive or highly aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is typically treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.