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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Organs That Contain Lymphoid Tissue
Because lymphoid tissue is in many parts of the body, lymphomas can start almost anywhere. The major sites
of lymphoid tissue are:
Lymph nodes: Lymph nodes are bean-sized organs located throughout the body and connected by a system
of lymphatic vessels. These vessels are like veins, except that instead of carrying blood, they carry lymph
and immune system cells traveling between lymph nodes and other tissues.
When lymph nodes combat an infection, they expand. Reactive lymph nodes, also known as hyperplastic
lymph nodes, are generally painful to the touch and expand in response to infection. Typically, an
enlarged lymph node does not indicate a major issue. People with colds or sore throats frequently
experience enlarged lymph nodes in their necks. But the most typical indicator of lymphoma is a big
lymph node. In the section titled "How Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Diagnosed?" there is more information
about lymph node enlargement.
Spleen:
Spleen: On the left side of the body, under the lower portion of the rib cage, is where the spleen is
situated. An adult's spleen typically weighs around 5 ounces. To aid in the fight against infection,
the spleen produces lymphocytes and other immune system cells. Additionally, it preserves healthy blood
cells while removing bacteria, cell waste, and damaged blood cells.
Thymus gland:
The thymus gland lies behind the upper part of the breastbone and in front of the
heart. Before birth, the thymus plays a vital role in
development of T lymphocytes. The thymus gland's size (about 1 ounce) and function diminish over the first 20
years of life. Despite this, the thymus continues to be active in
immune system function throughout life.
Adenoids and tonsils:
These are collections of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat. . They aid in
the production of antibodies that protect against ingested or inhaled germs. When
they enlarge as a result of an infection or develop cancer, they are simple to spot.
Digestive tract:
The stomach and intestinal tract as well as many other organs also contain lymphoid tissue.
Bone marrow:The bone marrow (the soft inner part of bones) makes red blood cells, blood
platelets, and white blood cells. Oxygen is transported from the lungs to the rest of the body
by red blood cells. Cuts or scrapes leave tiny holes in blood vessels, which platelets fill.
The main function of white blood cells is to fight infections. The granulocyte and lymphocyte
subtypes of white blood cells are the two main subtypes. B cells make up the majority of bone
marrow lymphocytes. Sometimes bone marrow lymphocytes serve as the origin of lymphomas.