Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma is little known by the general public

 

There are a number of treatments available which have the potential to relieve the symptoms of the disease for extended periods of time or, for certain types of NHL, and in certain cases, offer the possibility of a cure.

Non-Hodkins lymphoma (NHL or lymphoma) is a cancer of the lymphatic system that develops in the lymphoid tissue, which contains lymphocytes that are found throughout the body. There are two types of lymphocytes, B cells and T cells, which have different actions in the immune system. B lymphocytes produce antibodies against bacteria and viruses, and attract white blood cells, blood proteins, and other cells in the immune system to devour the anti-body coated invader.

There are several different types of T lymphocytes that all have unique functions. Some T cells destroy cancer cells, and others fight viruses, fungi, and bacteria. All T lymphocytes produce cytokines which attract white blood cells that help destroy invaders. According to the Cancer Society at www. cancer.org, non-Hodgkins lymphoma develops from B lymphocytes 85% of the time, and the other 15% from T lymphocytes.

The initial diagnosis of cancer is frightening for anyone, and it is no different with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Because lymphoid tissue is found throughout the body, the cancer can originate almost anywhere in the body, such as in the lymph nodes, spleen, digestive tract, tonsils, and many other parts of the body. There are approximately thirty different types of lymphoma recognized, which can make diagnosis difficult in many cases.

However, the treatment given to patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is tailor made for each individual. The treatment the recipient gets depends on a number of factors, including whether the disease is newly diagnosed or has relapsed for example, or if the disease is idle or aggressive. Another factor is what stage it is at and what type, or 'grade', of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma a particular patient has. Also added into the equation, is the patient's general health their age, and of course, their needs and requests.

Treatments for non-Hodgkins lymphoma vary depending on the type of lymphoma present, and the individual circumstance. Treatments are tailored specifically for each patient’s case, because no two people or their situations are exactly alike. What may work for one, may not for another. Obtaining a second opinion is recommended before beginning any type of treatment, especially if there is some question about the recommendations being made. In the case of major surgery, the patient should most definitely seek a second opinion. Most insurance companies will allow for a second opinion in many cases.

Many patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma go on to enjoy reasonably long periods of time in which they have very few, if any, symptoms at all. During these times, many find that they are quite able to live normal or near-normal lives.

For more useful information on non-Hodgkins lymphoma, including signs and symptoms, early diagnosis, and various treatments and interventions, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org, the National Caner Institute at www.cancer.gov, and www.lymphomafocus.org.