Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) Signs and Symptoms
The term “non-Hodgkin lymphoma” refers to a group of cancers that affect infection-fighting white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the immune system. The two main types are B-cell lymphoma and T-cell lymphoma. Although the various types and subtypes of NHL share many characteristics, they differ in several key ways, including their molecular features and growth patterns, their impact on the body and how they respond to treatment.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is relatively common, accounting for approximately 4% of cancer diagnoses in the United States. It is the most frequently diagnosed type of lymphoma, with an estimated lifetime risk of about 1 in 42 for men and 1 in 52 for women. Each year, approximately 80,000 new cases are diagnosed, making it one of the more frequently occurring blood cancers.
What are the early warning signs of non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
NHL tends to develop slowly and often has no noticeable symptoms other than painless lymph node enlargement, particularly in the neck, armpits and groin. Because these small, bean-shaped glands play a key role in the body’s immune response, they normally become enlarged when fighting off an infection. Therefore, swollen lymph nodes are common and typically not a sign of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in a healthy individual.
What are the symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
In addition to swollen lymph nodes, NHL may cause other symptoms that can be seen or felt.
What does non-Hodgkin lymphoma look like?
Enlarged lymph nodes may appear as lumps under the skin in the neck, armpits and groin. There may also be visible swelling or bloating in the abdomen. Other symptoms of NHL that can be seen include skin redness and unexplained weight loss.
What does non-Hodgkin lymphoma feel like?
In addition to painless lumps that can be felt in the neck, armpits and groin, NHL may cause:
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Persistent coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mental confusion
- Headaches
- Itchy skin
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Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can be challenging to detect because its early symptoms are often subtle and easily missed. Therefore, it is important to promptly discuss any unusual changes with a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The multispecialty team in Moffitt’s renowned Malignant Hematology Program focuses exclusively on diagnosing and treating NHL and other blood cancers. We develop a tailored treatment plan for each patient, overseeing all aspects of their care in a single location.
As the only National Cancer Institute-recognized Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt is nationally known for its groundbreaking research. Through our robust clinical trials program, we offer our patients early access to leading-edge lymphoma treatments before those options are made available in other settings.
If you would like to learn more about non-Hodgkin lymphoma signs and symptoms, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Malignant Hematology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.