Lymphoma is the name of a group of approximately 40 cancers that affects cells known as lymphocytes, which are cells of the immune system. Lymphocytes constitute approximately 25% of white blood cells and include B cells, which help produce antibodies, and T cells, which function in cellular immunity. Lymphoma occurs when malignant lymphocytes multiply, eventually crowding out healthy cells and creating tumors that enlarge the lymph nodes or other parts of the immune system.
Lymphomas fall into one of two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma (also known as Hodgkin’s disease) and all other lymphomas (collectively known as non-Hodgkin lymphomas). Hodgkin lymphoma develops from a specific abnormal B lymphocyte lineage. Non-Hodgkin can develop from either abnormal B or T cells. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas are much more common than Hodgkin lymphoma.
Our patients with lymphoma are treated at the Moores Leukemia and Lymphoma Unit. See the Leukemia and Lymphoma Unit for more information.
You can also review the tabs at top of this page for information on Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms and risks, diagnosis, and treatment.