What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?
There are 2 main types of lymphomas. The first is Hodgkin lymphoma (also known as Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin disease, or Hodgkin’s disease). It is named after Dr. Thomas Hodgkin, who first described it. The second is Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The difference in these lymphomas is in how they behave, spread and respond to treatment.
Doctors use a microscope to look at the cancer cells in order to determine which type it is.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is also called non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, NHL, or sometimes just lymphoma. It is a cancer that starts in cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are part of the body’s immune system located in the lymph nodes
Some Facts About Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma:
NHL is a cancer that originates in the lymphatic system.
There are about 66,000 patients diagnosed yearly.
Approximately 18,000 patients die of NHL yearly in the U.S.
There are several subtypes of NHL, each requiring different treatments.
Depending on the stage and type of NHL, treatment can include chemotherapy, biological therapy, stem cell transplant and/or radiation therapy.
Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma:
Swollen lymph nodes
Weight loss
Fever
Night sweats
Source(s):
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/Non-HodgkinLymphoma/DetailedGuide/non-hodgkin-lymphoma-what-is-non-hodgkin-lymphoma
http://www.medicinenet.com/non-hodgkins_lymphomas/article.htm