Overview

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is cancer of the lymphocytes. The disease can vary from lethargic to progressive. The lymphatic system is our body's defensive mechanism. Lymphocytes help our bodies naturally fight off diseases, viruses and infections. When our lymphatic system is compromised, our immune system is unable to protect itself from anything, even something as simple as the common cold.

Symptoms

Symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may include swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, itchy skin and abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is typically determined by a biopsy of one or more lymph nodes.

Treatment

Treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma generally consists of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and in some cases, peripheral blood stem cell transplantation.

Prognosis

Prognosis is categorized into groups. Low risk patients are under the age of 60, in stage I or II, and have fewer than four cancerous lymph nodes. The five-year survival rate is 91 percent. High risk patients are over the age of 65, in stage III or IV, and have more than four cancerous lymph nodes. The five-year survival rate is 53 percent.

Clinical Trials

According to the American Cancer Society, "Clinical trials are carefully controlled research studies that are done with patients who volunteer for them. They are done to get a closer look at promising new treatments or procedures." Furthermore, the American Cancer Society offers clinical trial matching services for cancer patients.