Disease Stages
When all information gained from the histologic and diagnostic examination techniques are available, the lymphoma spread throughout the body can be determined and classified. The classification is based upon the Ann-Arbor staging system.
Ann Arbor classification (lymphoma spread)
| Stage I | Nodal involvement in a single lymph node region or a single localized extranodal involvement (outside the lymphatic system) |
| Stage II | Nodal involvement of two or more lymph node regions on one side of the diaphragm or localized extranodal involvement (outside the lymphatic system) of lymph node regions on one side of the diaphragmoder |
| Stage III | Nodal involvement of two or more lymph node regions and/or involvement of organs outside the lymphatic system on both sides of the diaphragm |
| Stage IV | Not localized, diffuse or disseminated involvement of one or more extralymphatic organs with or without involvement of lymphatic tissue |
| Suffix A | No detectable B-symptoms |
| Suffix B | B-symptoms are present (fever > 38°C and/or night sweats and/or weight loss) |
The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring, appendix and Peyer’s patches.