BIOVAXID™

What is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) is a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. It is the fifth most common cancer in the United States with an estimated 65,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The cause of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is unknown however it is not considered hereditary.

The lymphatic system where NHL originates is comprised of bone marrow, spleen, thymus glands, lymph nodes, tonsils, appendix and a few other organs. The lymphatic system is the body's immune system and it's purpose is to defend the body from disease caused by foreign antigens (virus, bacteria or fungi). It is comprised of a network of lymphatic capillaries and lymphatic vessels that run through out the body. Within the lymphatic system are white blood cells that actively seeks out and either destroy or provide for removal of the foreign antigens and by a complex chemical signaling systems. There are two types of white blood cells, B-cells and T-cells. Both B-cells and T-cells fight infection however in different manners and provides the body with a two pronged attach against infection and disease. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma occurs when either the B-cell or T-cell transforms itself and becomes abnormal. These abnormal cells grown and divide without control creating a mass of tissue or tumor. Because the lymphatic system is present in many parts of the body, NHL can start also anywhere in the body.

The most common symptom of NHL is a painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin. Other symptoms may include the following:

• Unexplained fever
• Night sweats
• Constant fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin
• Reddened patches on the skin.

These symptoms are not always NHL. They may be caused by less serious conditions such as other infections or the flu. When symptoms present, it is important that you discuss them with your physician. You should not wait to feel pain as pain is not usually felt in early NHL. Only your physician can make a diagnosis.

NHL is divided into different types (B-Cell and T-Cell) and the subdivided into slow growing or aggressive and then further divided into categories and stages (if or how much the cancer has spread). There are thirty or more subtypes of lymphomas or closely related lymphocytic leukemias. Each type of NHL has a different recommended course of treatment; therefore the physician will conduct a number of tests to determine the exact type of lymphoma.

Accentia is currently performing clinical trials on BIOVAXID™, a cancer immunotherapy vaccine for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. To find out more on BIOVAXID™, or to inquire if may be a option for you, please visit our BIOVAXID™ Physician Information Center.