Types Of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Most non-Hodgkin lymphomas affect B cell lymphoid cells, but some affect T cell lymphoid cells.

The most important distinction, in terms of treating each patient’s lymphoma, is the speed at which the tumours grow. Fast growing tumours are called aggressive or high grade, lymphomas. About half of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients have an aggressive lymphoma called diffuse large cell B lymphoma. Aggressive lymphomas are easier to treat and cure, but need immediate treatment.

Slow growing tumours are called indolent or low grade, lymphomas. The most common form of indolent lymphoma is a type called follicular lymphoma, which affects about one in five of all patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Patients with indolent lymphomas may not need any treatment, and can lead a good quality of life without treatment for many years. Indolent lymphomas can, rarely, also develop into aggressive lymphomas.