Can Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children Be Found Early?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in children is uncommon, and there are no widely recommended screening tests for this cancer. (Screening is testing for cancer in people without any symptoms.) Still, in some cases NHL can be found early.

The best way to find this cancer early is to be aware of the possible signs and symptoms of this disease and to take your child to the doctor if something concerns you.

Careful, regular medical checkups are important for children, especially those with known risk factors for NHL, such as those who have certain inherited immune deficiencies, who have had cancer treatment or an organ transplant, or who have an HIV infection. These children do not usually develop NHL, but it is important for parents and doctors to know the possible symptoms and signs of lymphoma.

The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team
Our team is made up of doctors and master’s-prepared nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing.

Last Medical Review: March 7, 2014 Last Revised: January 27, 2016

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Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging