What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body's immune system. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL involves the proliferation of abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, throughout the lymphatic system.
These abnormal cells can accumulate in lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs, disrupting their normal function.
Side effects of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
The symptoms of NHL can vary depending on the subtype and location of the cancerous cells. Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and itching. In some cases, NHL can also lead to complications such as infections, bleeding disorders, and organ dysfunction.
How is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma diagnosed?
Diagnosing NHL typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. These tests may include:
- Biopsy: A sample of tissue is removed from an affected lymph node or organ and examined under a microscope to look for cancerous cells.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, or MRI scans may be used to visualize the extent of the disease and identify affected areas.
- Blood tests: Blood tests can detect abnormal levels of certain proteins or indicate problems with blood cell counts, which may suggest NHL.
- Bone marrow biopsy: This test involves taking a small sample of bone marrow to determine if NHL has spread to the bone marrow.
Potential treatments of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
Treatment options for NHL depend on several factors, including the subtype of NHL, the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and their preferences. Common treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often used as the first-line treatment for NHL and may be given alone or in combination with other therapies.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs work by stimulating the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. This treatment may be used for certain subtypes of NHL or as part of a combination therapy approach.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used to treat localized areas of NHL or as part of a broader treatment plan.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs are designed to specifically target cancer cells while sparing normal cells. These drugs may be used alone or in combination with other treatments for certain types of NHL.
- Stem cell transplant: In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be recommended to replace damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This procedure is typically reserved for patients with aggressive or recurrent NHL.
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