Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Diffuse large B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is a type of malignant cancer that develops in the B-cells of the immune system. B-cells are a type of lymphocyte, and typically inhabits key areas of the lymphatics system such as the spleen, thymus and lymph nodes. The lymphatics system is a secondary system of channels that mirrors the circulatory system, and is often used by many types of lymphocytes to reach other parts of the body. Cancerous B cells are able to use this system of channels to leave their trademark homes and drift through the body haphazardly. Because of this, cancerous B-cells are able to travel far from their point of origin to metastasize, creating secondary tumors at different parts of the body: a hallmark of all malignant cancers.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma is the most common type of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Symptoms of the disease often include night sweats, fever and weight loss. It is also known as an aggressive lymphoma because of it’s rapid onset and progression.

Drenching Night Sweats and fever

Cancerous B-cells are able to escape their lymph nodes of origin and invade the rest of the lymphatics system. The stage of the disease is based on the extent of the spread.

Cancerous B-Cells come in a variety of forms, but tend to be abnormally shaped and have large, irregular nuclei.

At stage four, the extent of the disease is at its greatest. It is common for cancer cells to invade other organs, such as the lungs, liver, and bone marrow.

Healthy B-Cell

Outer capsule of lymph node

Cancerous B-Cell escaping from lymph node

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