There are two broad divisions of lymphomas; Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) is a cancer that arises from B lymphocytes. Also known as Hodgkin’s disease, it was first described by Thomas Hodgkin in 1831. This is less common than non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and accounts for approximately 15% of all lymphomas and is common in young adults. It is characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. Early diagnosis can lead to full recovery.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Non-Hodgkins lymphomas (NHL) are a heterogenous group of lymphoproliferative malignancies which can involve both the lymph nodes and lymphoid organs as well as extranodal organs and tissues (eg, spleen). It affects the B or T-cells of the body. The Reed-Sternberg Cells are absent in this type of lymphoma. It usually affects adults above 60 years of age.
Types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
There are many types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The most common types are diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.
Lymphomas may be grouped based on their growth:
- Indolent (also called low-grade) lymphomas grow slowly. They tend to cause few symptoms. These include Follicular and MALT lymphomas.
- Aggressive (also called intermediate-grade and high-grade) lymphomas grow and spread more quickly. They tend to cause severe symptoms. Over time, many indolent lymphomas become aggressive lymphomas. These include Diffuse large B-cell, AIDs-associated and Burkitt's lymphoma.
Burkitt’s Lymphoma
Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) (or small noncleaved cell lymphoma) is one of the highly aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). It is associated with impaired immunity and is rapidly fatal if left untreated.
