PREVIEW Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes. It is also called a cancer of the lymphatic system, as it starts in the lymph glands Open a glossary item or other organs of the lymphatic system Open a glossary item. There are 2 main types of lymphoma. These are called Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). The treatment you need depends on the type you have. When you're looking for information about lymphoma, it's important to know which type you want to know about. Ask your doctor or specialist nurse if you aren't sure. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for approximately 85% of all lymphoma diagnoses and is the most common type of blood cancer in New Zealand. There are many different sub types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma which are divided into 'B-cell' or 'T-cell' lymphomas. Both sup-types are cancers of the lymphatic system after the B or T lymphocytes (type of white blood cell) undergo a malignant change and multiple uncontrollably. These abnormal cells eventually form as tumours, most commonly in the lymph nodes of the body. Hodgkin lymphoma is a rare cancer accounting for approximately 0.5% of all cancers diagnosed in New Zealand. While non-Hodgkin lymphoma can affect either the B or T cells, Hodgkin lymphoma is marked by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. Reed-Sternberg cells are malignant, mature B cells, and are unusually large. Lymphoma is a cancer that occurs in white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes help the body fight off disease. They travel through the lymphatic system, a network of lymph nodes connected by vessels. They are also located in the blood stream, bone marrow, and other organs such as the spleen. Lymphoma develops when immature lymphocytes start multiplying rapidly due to a genetic mutation or other alteration in their biology. This can lead to tumors in the lymph nodes or other organs. There are two main types of lymphoma: non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. But within these two broad categories, there are many additional subtypes. At this time, scientists have identified more than 90 different subtypes of lymphoma. Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas can occur in children and adults, and prognosis and treatment depend on the stage and the type of cancer. Get a Copy Now!