A group of cancers that affect the lymphocytes in the lymphatic system

They proliferate in the lymph nodes and cause them to become abnormally large (lymphadenopathy) - central, axillary, inguinal

Hodgkins lymphoma usually has better outcomes due to the age of presentation and generally earlier presentation due to the lymphadenopathy in the neck.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Ann Arbor/laguno Staging

Staging:

The Ann Arbor staging system is used for both Hodgkins and non-Hodgkins lymphoma. The system puts importance on whether the affected nodes are above or below the diaphragm. A simplified version is:

• Stage 1: Confined to one region of lymph nodes.
• Stage 2: In more than one region but on the same side of the diaphragm (either above or below).
• Stage 3: Affects lymph nodes both above and below the diaphragm.
• Stage 4: Widespread involvement including non-lymphatic organs such as the lungs or liver.

Additional staging variables

• (A) if the patient is asymptomatic or (B) if the patient presents with B symptoms (fever, night sweats, or weight loss).
• X if there is bulky nodal disease (>10 cm or >1/3 of the intra-thoracic diameter).
• (S) if there is splenic involvement.
• (E) if there is extra-nodal disease.