Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in our body’s lymphatic system, which is a series of tiny vessels through our body that help fight infection and disease. With proper treatment, the symptoms of lymphoma can be reduced, and in some cases, patients can be cured.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is named after Dr. Thomas Hodgkin, who first described the condition back in 1832. This cancer originates in the central lymph nodes of our body, which are located in the main points where the blood vessels are returning from the hands and legs, such as the neck, armpit, groin, and abdomen. This form of lymphoma is very treatable, with about 80% of patients that are diagnosed going on to live for 10 or more healthy years.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is not a specific type of lymphoma, but a categorization that includes about 30 types of lymphoma. Due to having various types of lymphoma in this category, it is much more common compared to Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. All variations of NHL are treatable, and often curable with treatment.

Both Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma originate in the lymph nodes, and the most common symptom is an enlarged lymph node, manifesting as a bump under the skin. Other signs and symptoms include of both types of lymphoma include:

• Fever

• Night sweats

• Itchy skin

• Trouble sleeping

• Loss of appetite

• Cough & chest pain

• Trouble breathing

There are more symptoms that can occur. The kinds of symptoms that patients experience can be different, depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer.

Lymphoma is typically treated using chemotherapy, radiation therapy, biological therapy, or any combination of the three. The ideal treatment for the patient depends on the patient’s type of lymphoma, as wells the stage and their own personal health.

It is recommended that patients seeking treatment for lymphoma consult with a radiation oncologist and medical oncologist since they specialize in the treatment methods for lymphoma.