What causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that help coordinate immune defence. A change in one of these cells can interfere with signals controlling division, repair, or removal of older cells. The altered cells may collect in lymph nodes or other tissues. The exact initiating change is often not identifiable, and having a possible contributor does not mean lymphoma will develop. Some immune disorders, medicines that suppress immunity, and certain infections can alter the environment in which lymphocytes grow. Helicobacter pylori infection is linked with a particular lymphoma affecting stomach-associated lymph tissue.

Arrange an assessment for a persistent painless swelling, unexplained fever, drenching night sweats, ongoing tiredness, or unintentional weight loss. A clinician may examine lymph nodes, review medicines and infections, and order blood tests or imaging. If a node or tissue area needs confirmation, a biopsy identifies the lymphoma type and guides treatment. Do not stop immune-suppressing medicine without medical advice.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, severe chest pressure, confusion, fainting, or rapidly increasing swelling in the neck or chest. Contact your clinical team promptly for persistent fever, repeated infections, new bruising, or marked weakness, particularly if you already have an immune condition or are receiving treatment.

Which findings make lymphoma more or less likely? Could an infection or medicine explain the swelling? What tests would identify the subtype? Should I be checked for Helicobacter pylori infection?