Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It involves the abnormal growth and proliferation of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, which can form tumors in the lymph nodes or other tissues.
NHL is a heterogeneous disease, meaning it can manifest in different ways and can have different subtypes, each with varying symptoms and prognoses. Some common symptoms of NHL include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Other symptoms may depend on the specific subtype and location of the cancer.
NHL is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests (such as CT scans and MRIs), and a biopsy to examine tissue samples under a microscope. Treatment options for NHL can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and/or stem cell transplantation. The specific treatment approach will depend on the subtype and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and individual circumstances.
