Final answer:
Childhood Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system. It can cause symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Childhood Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, specifically B or T lymphocytes. NHL is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and has around 60 different subtypes based on the specific cells affected.
The clinical manifestations of childhood NHL can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. To evaluate the disease, a biopsy is usually performed to confirm the presence of NHL. Additional tests like imaging scans and blood work may be done to determine the extent of the disease.
The treatment for childhood NHL depends on the specific subtype and stage of the disease. It can involve a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. The cure rate for childhood NHL varies depending on the subtype and stage, but with early detection and proper treatment, around 70% of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) can be cured.