Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Definition
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma or NHL is characterized by a certain group of cancers which arise from lymphocytes. NHL has distinctive clinical presentation from Hodgkin Lymphoma based on its pathology and epidemiology. It is also different from Hodgkin Lymphoma based on the commonly involved sites, clinical behavior and medical treatment. Diseases associated with non-Hodgkin Lymphomas presents diversity. The course of the diseases varies as well as the treatments. Prognoses for recovery among patients are also variable. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma usually develops in the spleen, lymph nodes and tonsils or in other organs which are related to the lymphatic system. Majority of the cases initially present as infiltration of lymph nodes. However, there are some subtypes which are restricted to other organs of the lymphatic system.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Diagnosis
Biopsy of the involved tissue is required to completely diagnose a Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. There are many subtypes for NHL. These subtypes are grouped into three different categories which are based on their aggressiveness or histology. The categories are indolent or low-grade, aggressive or intermediate-grade and highly aggressive or high-grade.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Symptoms and Signs
The primary symptom of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is an enlarged, painless and rubbery swelling of the lymph nodes observed in the neck, groin or underarm. NHL is localized only 10-20% of the time. Other symptoms may also include unexplained fever, weight loss and lack of appetite, fatigue, night sweats and itchy skin. Other patients also present red, dark and thick skin patches, chronic pain of the abdomen, anemia and leg swelling.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment
Treatment varies for each category. For instance, treatment for indolent or low-grade lymphoma may involve a certain period of observation to initiate the treatment. Treatment procedures for aggressive or highly aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma usually involve chemotherapy with or without concomitant radiation therapy.