Lymphoma

Lymphoma Types Explained - Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in India

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system. This short explains the two main categories of lymphoma and how they are broadly different.

What is lymphoma?

• A type of cancer. Lymphoma begins in infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. These cells are in the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and other parts of the body.
• Many subtypes. There are many different forms of lymphoma. However, they are all broadly grouped into two main categories.
• Key distinction. The main difference between the two types is the specific kind of lymphocyte that is involved. A pathologist confirms the type by examining a tissue sample.

The two main types of lymphoma

Knowing the type and subtype of lymphoma is very important as it helps doctors to plan the most suitable treatment.

• Hodgkin lymphoma. This type is marked by the presence of a specific abnormal cell called a Reed-Sternberg cell. It is less common than non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This is a broader category for all other types of lymphoma. It is more common and has many different subtypes, which can be slow-growing or aggressive.
• Treatment approach. Treatment plans are different for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. They can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.

How lymphoma is diagnosed and staged

• Initial diagnosis. Diagnosis usually requires a biopsy, where a small piece of tissue is removed from a lymph node or other affected area for examination.
• Imaging tests. Scans like CT, MRI, or PET scans are used to see where the cancer is in the body. This process is called staging.
• Staging. Staging determines the extent of the cancer. It helps to guide treatment decisions and understand the likely course of the disease.

The suitability of any treatment depends on the individual's specific case. A final decision is always made after a specialist has reviewed your medical reports and recent imaging.