Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

What is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin's disease is a type of lymphoma, which is a cancer in the lymphatic system.

Non-Hodgkin's disease causes the cells in the lymphatic system to abnormally reproduce eventually causing tumors to grow. Non-Hodgkin's disease cells can also spread to other organs.

There are several types of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, which are classified by how fast they grow.

What are the symptoms of non-Hodgkin's disease?
The following are the most common symptoms for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, however, each individual may experience symptoms differently:

• painless swelling of lymph nodes in neck, underarm, and groin
• fever
• night sweats
• fatigue
• weight loss
• itching of the skin
• recurring infections

The symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may resemble other blood disorders or medical problems, such as influenza or other infections. Consult your physician for a diagnosis.

What are the risk factors for non-Hodgkin's lymphomas?
Suggested risk factors include:

• genetic disease of the immune system
• unprotected exposure to strong sunlight
• high-fat, low-fiber diet
• smoking
• excessive alcohol consumption
• environmental factors such as radiation, chemicals, and infections
• organ transplantation
• infections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus (HTLV-1)
• infections with malaria
• history of infectious mononucleosis (caused by an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus)
• Helicobacter pylori bacterium, which has been identified as a cause of stomach ulcers

What causes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
No specific cause has been identified.

How is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may include:

• additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures
• x-rays of the chest, bones, liver, and spleen
• biopsy of the lymph nodes, bone marrow, and other sites
• lymphangiograms - x-rays of the lymphatic system
• computed tomography scan
• ultrasonography scan

Treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma:
Specific treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma will be determined by your physician(s) based on:

• your overall health and medical history
• extent of the disease
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the disease
• your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• radiation therapy
• chemotherapy