Lymphoma Treatment

Most often, Hodgkin lymphoma originates in lymph nodes in the chest, underarms, abdomen or pelvis. Lymph nodes are bean-sized collections of B cells that are connected to each other via the lymphatic system, which extends throughout the entire body. By traveling through the lymphatic system, lymphoma can spread among lymph nodes and also to other tissues and organs.

n addition to lymph nodes, Hodgkin lymphoma can develop in other sites of lymphoid tissue, such as the:

• Spleen – Located underneath the ribs on the left side of the body, the spleen produces B cells, stores healthy blood cells and filters damaged blood cells, bacteria and other waste from the body.
• Bone marrow – New B cells and blood cells are produced by this soft fatty tissue contained within bone cavities.
• Thymus – This small organ, which is situated behind the breastbone in front of the heart, plays a role in B cell development.
• Tonsils and adenoids – Located at the back of the throat, these small collections of lymphoid tissue create antibodies to fight germs that are breathed in or swallowed.
• Digestive tract – The stomach, intestines and other digestive organs also contain lymphoid tissue.

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects B cells in the lymphatic system—a part of the immune system that circulates lymph fluid throughout the body. While Hodgkin lymphoma can manifest differently from person to person, the first sign of this cancer is usually swollen lymph nodes along the side of the neck, in the underarms, above the collarbone or around the groin area. A swollen lymph node presents as a lump or bump underneath the skin that is usually painless, although it can sometimes feel tender to the touch.