Lymphoma is the name for a group of cancers in which the lymphocytes, or white blood cells, become malignant. The lymphocytes' job is to defend the body from germs, fungi and viruses. When a lymphocyte goes bad, instead of defending the body, it attacks it. There are different stages of lymphoma cancer that are symptomatic of the disease's progression.
Stage 1
In the first stage of lymphoma cancer, the disease is found in one group of lymph nodes. It may also occur in an organ which is not part of the lymph system.
Stage 2
In the second stage, the disease is found in two or more groups of lymph nodes. This occurs on the same side as the diaphragm, which is located below the lungs.
Stage 3
In the third stage, the disease spreads to both sides of the diaphragm. Other organs may be involved. If the cancer is in the spleen, then that also makes it a stage 3.
Stage 4
In the fourth stage, the liver and bone marrow are involved. Another indication of stage 4 is if organs that are far from the lymph nodes become infected.
Factors
Although the progression and "stage" of the cancer might be an indication of the patient's recovery prognosis, other factors contribute to the outcome, such as the age of the patient.
Tags: lymph nodes, disease found, lymphoma cancer, stage disease