Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is a cancer of the blood that effects the white blood cells and the organs of the lymph system. There are sub-classifications types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma depending on the speed of growth and how thew cells may appear under a microscope. Another factor is called the stage. Stage 1 through 5, Stage one means the cancer is confined to one area and has not affected the other areas of the body, while stage 5 means that the cancer has spread into all the major body systems.
This cancer mostly attacks adults with a 1 in 50 chance of diagnosis in a life time. People who are at higher risk for this cancer included people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV infections, or someone who has had an organ transplant. This cancer is slightly more common in men then in women.
This cancer has various symptoms depending on the area of the body and how fast the tumors may be growing. There may be fever, night sweats, unexplained itchiness, and swollen lymph glands. If the cancer is effecting the chest symptoms my include trouble breathing, coughing, or dizziness. The effects can depend on the area effected.
Treatment for this disease depends on several factors including the sub-classification, age and overall health of patient. The usual corse of treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation of the effected area and stem cell transplant.
The survival rate for many of the sub classifications is the ninety percent rage with treatment, but some classifications have much lower rates.
The doctor will run many tests, including blood and urine to figure out the sub classification and the stage. Then they will start a treatment plan which may include chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, there are many resources for you online.
