Keypoints
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a disease that affects the cells of the lymphatic system, known as white blood cells, or lymphocytes. In non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the lymphocytes start to behave like cancerous cells and grow and multiply uncontrollably,and may not die off in the way they ought to. Because of this, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is often referred to as a cancer.
These abnormal lymphocytes often collect in the lymph nodes, which, as a result, become swollen. Because lymphocytes circulate throughout the body, collections of abnormal lymphocytes - or 'lymphomas' - can also form in other parts of the body apart from the lymph nodes. There are more than 30 different sorts of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and everyone's experience is different. There are treatments for all the forms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and many patients respond to treatment. In those patients who are not cured, a remission can often be achieved. Even in those patients for whom a cure or remission is not possible, symptoms can be relieved. As a result, people who are treated for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can live normal or near-normal lives for many years. |
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