non hodgkin's lymphoma | Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

 

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Summary
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: what is it?
Symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Risk Factors and prevention
Medical treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Our doctor's opinion and additional approaches
Sites of interest and support groups

References
Note. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is one of two types of cancer in the lymphatic system. The second category, Hodgkin's disease, is rarer. It is the subject of another record.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of cancer of the lymphatic system, an important component of the immune system. When this disease occurs, it is due to the fact that lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells made in the bone marrow, spleen, thymus and lymph nodes, begin to multiply in a disordered and uncontrolled manner. It can reach other organs like the brain.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is 5 times more frequent than Hodgkin's lymphoma (or Hodgkin's disease) and affects about 16 people on 100 000. It is more prevalent in men than in women, and occurs more frequently around the age of 60 years at 70 years. People with a deficient immune system-those who are HIV-positive, for example, who have been grafted and take immunosuppressive drugs-are more at risk. About 10% of people infected with HIV will suffer from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

There are several types of non-Hodgkin lymphomas. They are identified according to the appearance of the cells under the microscope. Among them are two main categories: indolent lymphomas and aggressive lymphomas. The first ones develop more slowly and cause fewer symptoms. The latter have a faster growth.

Causes
The exact causes of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma are not known, and most often there are no favourable factors. However, research indicates that some hereditary immunodéficitaires diseases, such as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, may increase the risk of developing the disease. infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, HIV, Helicobacter pylori or malaria) also appear to increase risk. Finally, environmental factors, such as exposure to pesticides, could be involved. However, further research is needed to confirm these links.

When to consult?
Consult your doctor if you discover one or more painless mass, especially in the area of the neck, groin or armpit, which does not disappear after a few weeks. The faster the disease is discovered, the better the chances of healing.