What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) can be any of a large group of cancers of the immune system. NHL can be caused by organic solvents like benzene and other chemicals.  NHL can occur at any age and is often marked by enlarged lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss.  Historically, NHL’s were a group of lymphomas that were not Hodgkin’s lymphoma Hodgkin’s was easily identifiable by the presence of a certain unique type of cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell.

There are many different types of NHL which can make this group of cancer particularly confusing. They can be divided into aggressive (fast-growing) and indolent (slow-growing) types and can be classified as either B-cell or T-cell NHL.

B-cell NHLs include:

• Burkitt lymphoma
• diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
• follicular lymphoma
• immunoblastic large cell lymphoma
• precursor B-lymphoblastic lymphoma
• B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• mantle cell lymphoma.
• T-cell NHLs include:
• mycosis fungoides
• anaplastic large cell lymphoma
• precursor T-lymphoblastic lymphoma

It is important to note that a leukemia called B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is simply a different manifestation of a non-Hodgkin lymphoma called B-cell small lymphocytic lymphoma (NHL).

Prognosis and treatment of NHL depend on the stage and type of disease.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with CLL or NHL, exposure to volatile organic compounds and solvents may be the cause of your cancer.  Legal help is available.  Please contact Paul & Hanley, LLP for a free consultation (800 933-2244) to discuss the possibility of receiving compensation for your injuries.

What parts of the immune system are attacked by NHL?

Adult non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells affect the lymph system. The lymph system is part of the immune system and is made up of the following:

• Lymph:  Colorless, watery fluid that travels through the lymph system and carries white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes protect the body against infections and the growth of tumors. The and lymphocytes travel through the lymph vessels and into the lymph nodes where the lymphocytes destroy harmful substances.
• Lymph vessels:  A network of thin tubes that collect lymph from different parts of the body and return it to the bloodstream.
• Lymph nodes:  Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and store white blood cells that help fight infection and disease. Lymph nodes are located along the network of lymph vessels found throughout the body.
• Clusters of lymph nodes are found in the underarm, pelvis, neck, abdomen, and groin.
• Spleen:  An organ that makes lymphocytes, filters the blood, stores blood cells, and destroys old blood cells. It is on the left side of the abdomen near the stomach.
• Thymus:  An organ in which lymphocytes grow and multiply. The thymus is in the chest behind the breastbone.
• Bone marrow:  The soft, spongy tissue in the center of large bones. Bone marrow makes white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. 

Legal Questions

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) and think it may be caused by toxic exposure to organic solvents like benzene, and you have legal questions or require legal assistance, contact Paul & Hanley, LLP.

Our firm has an outstanding track record of success in cases across the country, and our lawyers are known for their honesty, integrity and compassion.  We've built our reputation on toxic tort litigation representing individuals diagnosed with NHL, mesothelioma and other serious diseases with dignity and respect.

We handle a select number of cases at a time and represent workers and families with the extra special attention required for the best possible outcome in each case.  We understand your case is unique, so we take the time to get to know you and your family.  Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.  We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions.  Our toll free telephone number is 800 933-2244.  We look forward to helping you.