What is non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Lymphomas are divided into two groups – Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. There are more than twenty different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Lymphoma cells generally grow in lymph nodes (glands) and make them enlarge. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma often begins in the lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or chest. Sometimes the cancer may spread to other lymph nodes nearby or cells may enter the blood stream and be carried to other organs. However, some lymphomas begin in organs such as the stomach or bowel.

The treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma depends on the type of lymphoma it is, where it is in the body, how far it has spread and your general state of health. Some lymphomas are very slow growing and need little or no treatment for many years. Others grow rapidly and may cause serious ill health if not treated at once. Treatment for lymphoma, even when it has spread from the original site, can be very successful. Many people can be cured, or their disease controlled for many years.