Lymphoma

Lymphoma is more treatable today than ever before. Survival rates for many types of lymphoma are 80% or higher when diagnosed early. At Mercy, we’re committed to helping people facing lymphoma survive and thrive after treatment.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is cancer that starts in the lymph system (also called the lymphatic system), which is part of the body’s immune system. Lymph is a fluid that contains white blood cells your body needs to fight infection. Just as your circulatory system carries blood throughout your body, the lymph system transports lymph fluid.

Sometimes a type of white blood cell (called a lymphocyte) can change and grow out of control, causing lymphoma. Lymphoma cells can form masses (tumors) in any area of the body that has lymph tissue, such as the spleen, thymus gland, bone marrow, tonsils and digestive tract.