Primary Lymphoma of Bone

Lymphomas can arise from most any lymphatic tissue (lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)). It is hard to believe but the bones are an important part of the lymphatic process: the "B" in white b-cell is for cell maturation in the bone marrow.

Lymphomas (Nonhodgkin's mostly, rarely Hodgkin's lymphoma) can start in the bone. These lymphomas are all quite rare, 1-3% of bone tumors. The lymphoma can be an aggressive one or an indolent form. These are not to be confused with lymphomas that have spread to the bone from other areas.

Lymphoma of bone strikes more men than women (4:3 ratio). They can occur at all ages but is rare in pediatric (childhood) patients. 20% of cases are adults in their 60s.

Symptoms

The main symptom is localized pain which has been present for months if not years. The area of the primary tumor may be tender or swell. Fever and weight loss do not occur.

Treatment

If the tumor is localized, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy may be given. The oncologist may elect to surgically remove the affected bone. Radiation may be given if local lymph nodes are involved where as chemotherapy may be called for for disease that has spread. Exact treatment will be determined by your doctor based on what testing finds.

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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Information Pages:

• Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Diagnosis
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Aggressive Lymphomas
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Indolent Lymphomas
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Treatment
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Resources

Hodgkin's Lymphoma Page

• Hodgkin Lymphoma Index