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What is lymphoma?

Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system. When a person has lymphoma, some of their lymphocytes are 'out of control'. They divide in an abnormal way, or do not die off when they should. These abnormal lymphocytes can collect in the lymph nodes, which then enlarge as the lymphocytes form tumours.

Lymphoma can affect lymph nodes in all parts of the body. It can also involve other organs, such as the spleen or the bone marrow. Like other cancers, lymphoma can affect the function of the tissue involved. For example, someone with lymphoma in the bone marrow might not be able to make new blood cells.

Although lymphoma is a disease of the lymphatic system, it can also happen in other areas of the body. For example, lymphoma can affect the stomach, the skin, or the liver.

You can read about the difference between lymphoma and leukaemia by clicking here

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What is the lymphatic system? >
What causes lymphoma ? >
Symptoms of lymphoma >
How is lymphoma classified ? >
Hodgkin lymphoma >
Non Hodgkin lymphoma >
Lymphoma Facts >