Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

OBJECTIVES: To review the etiology, epidemiology, classification, diagnosis, staging, prognosis, treatment, and nursing implications of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. DATA SOURCES: Research studies, review articles, and book chapters pertaining to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. CONCLUSIONS: Non-Hodgkins's lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of lympho-proliferative disorders, increasing in frequency, for which therapy ranges from supportive to curative. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: An understanding of the variety of presentations and treatments of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas will enable the oncology nurse to assist patients and their families to cope with the disease, make treatment-related decisions, and optimize the patient's quality of life.