What is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) refers to a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. It is the fifth most common type of cancer in the United States with an estimated 65,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The cause of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is unknown; however it is not thought to be hereditary.

The lymphatic system where NHL originates is comprised of bone marrow, spleen, thymus glands, lymph nodes, tonsils, appendix and a few other organs. The lymphatic system is a key element of the body's immune system and its purpose is to assist in the defense against disease caused by foreign agents including virus, bacteria or fungi. The lymphatic system is comprised of a network of lymphatic capillaries and lymphatic vessels that run throughout out the body. Within the lymphatic system are white blood cells that actively seek out and either destroy or aid in the removal of the foreign agents using complex chemical signaling systems. There are two types of white blood cells, B-cells and T-cells. B-cells and T-cells work in different ways and provide the body with a two pronged attack against infection and disease. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma occurs when an individual B-cell or T-cell undergoes a genetic alteration and becomes abnormal. These abnormal cells grow and divide in an uncontrolled manner resulting in the development of a mass of tissue or tumor in the lymphatic system. Because the lymphatic system is present in many parts of the body such a mass can appear in a variety of locations in the body.

The most common symptom of NHL is a painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin. Other symptoms may include the following:

• Unexplained fever
• Night sweats
• Constant fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin
• Reddened patches on the skin.

These symptoms are not always NHL. They may be caused by less serious conditions such as other infections or flu. When symptoms are present, it is important that you discuss them with your physician. You should not wait to feel pain as pain is not usually felt in early NHL. Only your physician can make a diagnosis of NHL.

NHL can affect either B-cells or T-cells and may be either slow growing (indolent) or fast growing (aggressive). NHL can be further categorized according to how much the cancer has spread or progressed at the time of diagnosis. There are thirty or more subtypes of lymphomas or closely related lymphocytic leukemias. Each type of NHL has a different recommended course of treatment; therefore a physician will conduct a number of tests to determine the exact type of lymphoma before prescibing the appropriate treatment.

Biovest is currently conducting clinical trials on BiovaxID™, a cancer immunotherapy vaccine for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. To find out more about BiovaxID™, or to inquire if may be an option for you, please visit our BiovaxID™ Physician Information Center.