texas oncology more breakthroughs. more victories
I am a: Patient | Caregiver | Refering Physician
Some of our cancer centers may have important notifications found on the location page. View More Important Notifications x
Request an Appointment

Lymphoma Classification

Classification of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas

The purpose of further classifying non-Hodgkin lymphomas into specific categories is to describe the individual behavior and develop appropriate treatment strategies for each type of lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas have been classified by several different systems over the past 30 years. The most common system used in the 1980’s-1990’s was the International Working Formulation (IWF). The IWF divided non-Hodgkin lymphomas into 3 grades based on the lymphoma’s appearance under a microscope. Since the IWF was utilized, a great deal of additional work has been performed that further classifies non-Hodgkin lymphomas into individual cancers, each with their own specific features and behavior. This newer system is called the Revised European American Lymphoma (REAL) classification and has been recommended for use by all doctors. Unfortunately, it will take several years for all doctors and the results of clinical trials to refer to the REAL system. This section allows patients to select the relevant type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and learn about its treatment.

International Working Formulation Classification of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

High Grade:

  • Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
  • Small Noncleaved cell, Burkitt’s or non Burkitt’s

Intermediate Grade:

Low Grade:

  • Small Lymphocytic/Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Revised European American Lymphoma (REAL) Classification

  • B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Leukemia
  • Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma
  • Mantle Cell Lymphoma
  • Marginal Zone B-Cell Lymphoma
  • MALToma
  • Burkitt’s Lymphoma
  • Burkitt’s Like Lymphoma
  • Precursor B or T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma/Leukemia

Copyright ©; 2022 CancerConnect. All Rights Reserved.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma FACT SHEET

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer within the cells of the immune system, specifically the lymphocyte cells (a type of white blood cell) in lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, digestive tract, thymus (a small organ behind the breastbone), and bone marrow. There are two categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas can be classified as aggressive (fast-growing) or indolent (slow-growing) cancers depending on the type. There are many different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and researchers have yet to determine a direct cause for the disease. Individuals with severely suppressed immune systems have a higher risk. The survival rate depends on the type and stage of the lymphoma.

LEARN MORE >

Tana Davis

Patient Story: Tana Davis

“You can have apprehension about things in life, but you can’t live on that. So, you have to move forward, be happy, and hope that everything goes well.”

READ NOW >