What Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a relatively common malignant tumor in China, originating in the lymphatic system—what the general public commonly refers to as “cancer.” Clinically, lymphomas are classified into two major types based on their biological characteristics: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). So, what exactly is non-Hodgkin lymphoma? The following section provides an explanation.

What Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a hematologic malignancy falling under the broader category of malignant lymphomas. Its hallmark clinical feature is painless, progressive enlargement of lymph nodes—most commonly in the neck and supraclavicular regions—followed by involvement of axillary and inguinal lymph nodes. Additionally, many patients present with high fever or systemic symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. Systemic manifestations—including fever, weight loss, and night sweats—are frequently observed in advanced-stage NHL. Beyond nodal involvement, NHL may also affect extranodal sites, such as Waldeyer’s ring (the lymphoid tissue of the pharynx), hilar and mediastinal structures, and the gastrointestinal tract. Diagnosis of NHL relies primarily on histopathological examination of lymph node biopsy specimens. NHL is further subdivided into indolent (low-grade) and aggressive (high-grade) subtypes. Asymptomatic indolent lymphomas typically progress slowly and may be managed with active surveillance (“watch-and-wait”). In contrast, aggressive lymphomas require prompt, intensive systemic chemotherapy.

Knowledge Extension: Dietary Recommendations for Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

1. Consume abundant fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C, such as spinach, bok choy, tomatoes, hawthorn berries, red dates, lemons, white radishes, and kiwifruit. Experimental evidence indicates that diets high in vitamin C–rich foods possess cancer-preventive and anticancer properties.

2. Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are encouraged to include immune-enhancing foods in their diet, such as coix seed (Job’s tears), shiitake mushrooms, wood ear fungus, Chinese yam, red dates, longan aril, goji berries, lotus seeds, black fungus, and tremella. These foods help boost the antitumor activity of lymphocytes and macrophages, exerting indirect anticancer effects.

The above provides an overview of what non-Hodgkin lymphoma is. We hope this information proves helpful.