What type of cancer is Non-Hodgkin lymphoma classified as?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is classified as a type of blood cancer that primarily affects lymphocytes, which are integral components of the immune system. Lymphocytes include T cells and B cells, which play critical roles in the body’s defense against infections and diseases. In Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, these lymphocytes undergo malignant changes, leading to an abnormal increase in their numbers, and can accumulate in lymph nodes and other organs, disrupting normal bodily functions.

This classification distinguishes it from cancers that originate in other organs, such as the liver, bones, or stomach, as it directly arises from the abnormal proliferation of cells in the lymphatic system. Understanding this helps in recognizing the unique characteristics and treatment approaches that pertain specifically to blood cancers like Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.