Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
At UM Children’s Hospital, our childhood cancer team can help your family navigate a non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, giving you the information, resources and treatment options you need.
Choose UM Children's for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment
At UM Children's Hospital, you can get the latest treatments for non-Hodgkin lymphoma right here in Baltimore. Our team of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and patient care specialists are here to support you. You will also get help from:
- Social workers – Social workers can help your family navigate the ups and downs of treatment.
- Child life specialists – These specialists will help your child to understand treatment and cope with any worries they might have.
- Counseling and education – We'll answer all your questions about non-Hodgkin lymphoma and your child's care. We'll also listen to your concerns and help you find ways to support your child throughout treatment.
- Support groups – Connect with others who understand what you're going through.
What Is Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. The lymphatic system helps fight infection by filtering fluids and waste products.
Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Kids
While symptoms can vary, common signs of pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma include painless swelling of the lymph nodes – especially in the neck, underarm, chest or groin, abdominal pain, bone and joint pain, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fever lasting more than two weeks, itchy skin, sore throat, cough, nausea and/or vomiting and change in bowel movements.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, consult your doctor right away. Early diagnosis is key.
Diagnosing Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Your child's doctor will conduct a physical examination and may order additional tests, such as:
- Blood tests – to check for abnormalities in blood cell counts
- Imaging tests – X-rays, CT scans or PET scans to see the extent of the disease
- Biopsy – removing a small sample of tissue from a lymph node for examination under a microscope
- Lumbar puncture – evaluate fluid around the spine and brain for abnormal cells
How to Treat Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
The specific treatment plan will depend on various factors, including the stage and type of lymphoma, your child's age and overall health.
Some common treatment options for pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma include:
- Chemotherapy – powerful medications that kill cancer cells
- Radiation therapy – high-energy rays that target and destroy cancer cells
- Surgery – removing tumors
- Immunotherapy – using the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells
- Stem cell transplant – a procedure that replaces unhealthy bone marrow with healthy stem cells
