Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)

Overview 

Adult non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is divided into two groups: indolent lymphomas, which are slower-growing and have fewer symptoms, and aggressive lymphomas, which grow more quickly.

There are three major types of childhood non-Hodgkin lymphomas: lymphoblastic lymphoma, small noncleaved cell lymphoma (either Burkitt's lymphoma or non-Burkitt's lymphoma), and large cell lymphoma.

Causes

The causes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are unknown. In some cases, the disease has been associated with exposure to radiation or hazardous chemicals. It occurs more often in older people.

Incidence

The American Cancer Society estimates that 66,120 new cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) will be diagnosed in 2008, including both adult and child cases.

NHL most commonly affects men and women between the ages of 50-70. It also may be found in patients who have autoimmune disorders; who have received previous radiation or chemotherapy; who have been exposed to industrial chemicals; or who have acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Signs & Symptoms

Early symptoms may include painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarms and groin; fever; weakness, fatigue; weight loss without dieting; and itching.