LYMPHOMA, NON-HODGKIN'S

General Information

DEFINITION--Malignant tumor of the lymph glands. This is more common than Hodgkin's disease (another form of lymphoma).

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

• Lymphocytes (white blood cells).
• Lymph glands (glands that fight infection and produce immune substances).
• Spleen (a large lymph gland).

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--All ages, but most common in men in their 40s.

> Swollen, non-tender, rubbery, distinct lymph glands anywhere in the body--

but most commonly in the armpit, neck or groin.

• Weight loss.
• General ill feeling.
• Anemia.
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes).

CAUSES--Unknown, but research suggests a virus infection may be a factor or suppression of the immune system, particularly after organ transplantation. One type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma called Burkitt's lymphoma is thought to be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Adults over 40.

HOW TO PREVENT--No specific preventive measures.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory studies of blood and bone marrow.
• Lymphangiogram (See Glossary).
• Biopsy (See Glossary) of lymph node.
• X-rays of various body parts that may be involved.
• CT scan (See Glossary).

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Radiation therapy and/or anticancer drugs are given for treatment, depending on extent of the disease.
• Bone-marrow transplantation (see in Surgery section) may be considered if other methods fail.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--Spread of lymphoma to other parts of the body.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Usually treatable with radiation therapy and anticancer drugs and may result in long-term control or cure. Life expectancy can be normal. The potential for cure varies according to the cell type discovered from biopsy of the lymph node and the extent and spread of disease when diagnosed.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• The more you can learn and understand about a disease, the more you will be able to make informed decisions about where to go for your care, the treatments available, the risks involved, side effects of therapy and expected outcome.
• Try to remain optimistic about your treatment and chances for cure. A good mental attitude is a powerful ally.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe anticancer drugs. Medication may cause side effects or adverse reactions in some people. New symptoms may be caused by the medicine, original disorder or a new illness. Side effects caused by medicine usually disappear when your body adjusts to the drug or when the drug is discontinued.

ACTIVITY--Remain as active as your strength allows.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have symptoms of lymphoma.
• The following occurs during treatment: Fever. Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain or tenderness) anywhere in the body. Swelling of the feet and ankles. Discomfort when urinating or decreased urination in 1 day.
• You think your medicine is causing symptoms.