Summary about Disease
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's germ-fighting immune system. In NHL, white blood cells called lymphocytes grow out of control and form tumors. NHL is a broad term for many different types of lymphoma, each with different characteristics, treatment approaches, and prognoses. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, which has specific abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells, NHL includes all other types of lymphomas.
Symptoms
Symptoms of NHL can vary depending on the type and location of the lymphoma. Common symptoms include:
Swollen lymph nodes (in neck, armpits, or groin), which are usually painless
Abdominal pain or swelling
Chest pain, coughing or trouble breathing
Fatigue
Fever
Night sweats
Weight loss (unexplained)
Skin rash or itchy skin
Causes
The exact cause of NHL is often unknown. However, several factors can increase the risk:
Weakened immune system: People with HIV/AIDS or who have had organ transplants are at higher risk.
Certain infections: Some infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Helicobacter pylori, have been linked to NHL.
Exposure to certain chemicals: Benzene and certain pesticides are associated with an increased risk.
Age: Some types of NHL are more common in older adults.
Genetics: Having a family history of lymphoma may increase the risk.
Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus have been linked.
Medicine Used
Treatment for NHL depends on the type, stage, and grade of the lymphoma, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:
Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill cancer cells. Examples: cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone (CHOP regimen), bendamustine.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the immune system fight cancer. Examples: rituximab (targets CD20 protein on lymphoma cells), checkpoint inhibitors.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells. Examples: ibrutinib, venetoclax.
Stem cell transplant: Replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
Monoclonal Antibodies: e.g., Rituximab, Obinutuzumab
Radioimmunotherapy: Combines a monoclonal antibody with a radioactive substance. e.g., Ibritumomab tiuxetan
Is Communicable
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Since NHL is not communicable, standard infection control precautions are not applicable. However, people undergoing treatment for NHL may have weakened immune systems and should take precautions to avoid infections:
Wash hands frequently.
Avoid close contact with sick people.
Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
Get vaccinated against preventable infections (consult with your doctor).
How long does an outbreak last?
NHL is not an "outbreak" type of disease. It is a cancer that develops over time. The duration of the disease depends on the type, stage, and response to treatment. Some types of NHL are slow-growing (indolent), while others are aggressive. Treatment can lead to remission, but relapse is possible.
How is it diagnosed?
NHL is diagnosed through a combination of:
Physical exam: Checking for swollen lymph nodes and other signs of the disease.
Blood tests: Complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests, and tests to detect viral infections.
Lymph node biopsy: Removing a sample of lymph node tissue for examination under a microscope. This is crucial for confirming the diagnosis and determining the type of NHL.
Bone marrow biopsy: Removing a sample of bone marrow to check for cancer cells.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans to assess the extent of the disease.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the type and aggressiveness of the NHL.
Indolent NHL: Symptoms may develop slowly over months or years and may initially be subtle or absent. Some people are diagnosed incidentally during routine checkups.
Aggressive NHL: Symptoms can develop rapidly, over weeks or months. There is no set timeline, and symptom progression varies widely between individuals.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Treatment options are constantly evolving with new therapies being developed.
Clinical trials may offer access to promising new treatments.
Follow-up care is essential after treatment to monitor for recurrence and manage any long-term side effects.
Prognosis varies widely depending on the type, stage, and grade of the lymphoma, as well as the patient's overall health and response to treatment.
Living with NHL can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Support groups and counseling can be helpful.