Which of the following describes lymphoma?

Lymphoma is specifically categorized as a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a crucial component of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and organs such as the spleen and thymus. Anomalies within this system, particularly the overproduction of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), lead to the development of lymphoma.

Understanding this definition is essential because lymphoma manifests symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss due to its systemic nature. This differentiates it from other types of cancer that may only affect specific organs or systems, such as those affecting the lungs, the digestive tract, or skin cells. Thus, recognizing lymphoma’s association with the lymphatic system is crucial for proper identification, diagnosis, and treatment within oncology nursing practice.