Understanding Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are part of the body’s immune system.
Key Fact: NHL is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma and includes many different subtypes that grow at different rates.
Common Symptoms
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Painless swelling in nodes of the neck, armpits, or groin.
Abdominal Pain
Swelling or feeling of fullness in the abdomen if the spleen or liver is involved.
Night Sweats
Episodes of intense sweating during sleep that may soak bedding.
Weight Loss
Rapid weight loss that cannot be explained by changes in diet or activity.
Risk Factors
- Older age
- Exposure to certain chemicals (pesticides, herbicides)
- History of viral infections (EBV, HIV, HCV)
- Weakened immune system
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves removing a portion of a lymph node for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
Excisional Lymph Node Biopsy
Immunophenotyping
Flow Cytometry
Lumbar Puncture (in some cases)
Common Treatments
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R-CHOP: A standard combination of chemotherapy drugs and a monoclonal antibody (rituximab).
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Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities within cancer cells.
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Stem Cell Transplant: Using high-dose chemo followed by a transplant of healthy blood-forming cells.