Lymphoma, a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, primarily falls into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), also known as Hodgkin's disease, is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. It's often highly treatable, and many people are cured.
Key Features of Hodgkin Lymphoma:
- Presence of Reed-Sternberg cells: These are large, abnormal lymphocytes.
- Typically affects lymph nodes: Often starts in lymph nodes in the upper body, such as the neck, chest, or underarms.
- Generally good prognosis: Hodgkin lymphoma often has a high cure rate, especially when diagnosed early.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a diverse group of cancers that develop from lymphocytes. It's much more common than Hodgkin lymphoma. There are many different subtypes of NHL, which vary significantly in their behavior and prognosis.
Key Features of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
- Heterogeneous group of cancers: Includes many different subtypes, each with unique characteristics.
- Variable prognosis: The prognosis depends heavily on the specific subtype and stage of the cancer.
- Can arise in any lymph node: NHL can start in lymph nodes throughout the body, as well as in organs outside the lymphatic system.
Examples of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Subtypes:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL): An aggressive type of NHL.
- Follicular lymphoma: A slow-growing (indolent) type of NHL.
- Burkitt lymphoma: A very aggressive type of NHL that often affects children.
- Mantle cell lymphoma: A typically aggressive type of NHL.
- Marginal zone lymphoma: Usually slow-growing NHL. This includes extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (MALT lymphoma), nodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma, and splenic marginal zone B-cell lymphoma.
The specific type of lymphoma is determined through a biopsy of affected tissue. This allows doctors to accurately diagnose the disease and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
