T-cell lymphoma (patient information)

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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [mailto:mgibson@perfuse.org] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Jinhui Wu, M.D.

Overview of T-cell lymphoma
Lymphoma is the most common blood cancer and the third most common cancer in childhood. It is a cancer of lymphocytes that constitute the lymphatic system. Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes grow abnormally. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin's lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The body has two types of lymphocytes: B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes. B-cell lymphoma is more common. It comprises nearly 85% of all Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. And T-cell lymphoma is relatively rare. It can grow in any part of the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, blood or other organs. Usual symptoms include fatigue, skin rash, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpit and groin, etc. Biopsy of lymph nodes is the best way for diagnosis. Images tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan may helpful. Treatments involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a ombination of them.