Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the immune system, specifically the lymphatic system. It is the third most common type of cancer in children, accounting for about 7% of all childhood cancers.

What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune system. There are several types of NHL, including:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
• Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)
• Lymphoblastic lymphoma (LL)
• Burkitt lymphoma/leukemia (BL)

Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

The symptoms of NHL in children can vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Itching
• Swelling of the face, arms, or legs
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Coughing or difficulty breathing (if the tumor is in the chest)

Diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

To diagnose NHL, a doctor will perform a physical exam and take a complete medical history. The following tests may also be ordered:

• Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans) to evaluate the extent of the disease
• Blood tests to check for abnormal white blood cells or other signs of cancer
• Bone marrow biopsy to check for cancer cells in the bone marrow
• Lymph node biopsy to examine the lymph nodes for cancer cells

Treatments for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

The treatment of NHL in children depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the child's overall health. Common treatments include:

• Chemotherapy: a combination of medications to kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy: high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
• Targeted therapy: medications that specifically target cancer cells
• Immunotherapy: medications that stimulate the immune system to fight cancer
• Surgery: to remove tumors or affected lymph nodes
• Bone marrow transplantation: a procedure to replace damaged bone marrow with healthy bone marrow

Stages of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

NHL is typically staged using the following system:

• Stage I: cancer is limited to one lymph node group or one area outside the lymph nodes
• Stage II: cancer is in two or more lymph node groups on the same side of the diaphragm or in one area outside the lymph nodes and one or more lymph node groups on the same side of the diaphragm
• Stage III: cancer is in lymph node groups on both sides of the diaphragm, which is an imaginary line that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity
• Stage IV: cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bone marrow, liver, or lungs

Prognosis and Survival Rates for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

The prognosis and survival rates for NHL in children vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. With current treatments, about 80-90% of children with NHL can be cured.