Conditions InDepth: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system fights infections and drains excess fluid from body tissues.
Non-Hodgkins lymphoma
is a general name given to many types of cancer that develop from white blood cells, called lymphocytes, in your lymphatic system. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma is different from
Hodgkins lymphoma, a related type of cancer.
In general, non-Hodgkins lymphomas are divided into categories: highly aggressive, aggressive, and low grade. They may also be described by the type of cells found within the lymphoma or the pattern of growth within the tissue.
| The Lymphatic System |
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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-Hodgkins lymphoma is unknown.
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.lls.org/diseaseinformation/lymphoma. Updated February 2, 2012. Accessed April 5, 2013.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/non-hodgkin. Accessed April 5, 2013.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: Mohei Abouzied, MD; Michael Woods, MD
- Review Date: 04/2013 -
- Update Date: 04/05/2013 -
