Cancer Data Base: Lymphoma

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Lymphoma - Overview

Overview

The term “lymphoma” identifies more than 67 subtypes of cancer that affect the lymphatic system. These 67 subtypes are divided into two groups of lymphoma:

Hodgkin Lymphoma: Representing 6 types of lymphoma and more than 800 annual diagnoses
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Representing at least 61 types of lymphoma and more than 66,000 annual diagnoses.

Hodgkin lymphoma and NHL differ in the way they originate, proliferate, and are treated.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma develops in the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in the body’s ability to fight off infection. In NHL, lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) undergo anomalous mutations that cause tumors to develop.

Signs and Symptoms

Swollen Lymph Nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin
Night Sweats
Fatigue
Weight Loss
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Itchy Sensations
Chest Pain
Trouble Breathing
Fever
Coughing

Learn More

Understand the signs and symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis and staging, treatment, and prognosis of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma by visiting the Lymphoma Research Foundation. Also, visit the Know Cancer Community and Education pages to share your stories and learn more about the effects and future of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma, also known as Hodgkin’s disease, is a cancer that originates in the lymph tissue of the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and bone marrow. It is distinguished from other forms of lymphoma by the presence of the Reed-Sternberg cell.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms associated with Hodgkin’s lymphoma are flu-like in nature. As a result, many patients ignore their symptoms, wrongfully assuming that they can be treated with over-the-counter flu and cold remedies. Symptoms may include: