January 11, 2024

What is the Difference Between Lymphoma and Leukemia?

A Leading Oncologist Offers Clarity

Edited by: Jenna Jones

In this discussion, we delve into the distinction between two types of blood cancer: leukemia and lymphoma. Confusion often arises because both are blood cancers. Leukemia typically occurs in the bone marrow, while lymphoma originates in the lymphatic system, primarily impacting lymph nodes and tissue.

Dr. Matthew Matasar, Chief of the Division of Blood Disorders at Rutgers Cancer Institute and an expert hematologist-oncologist, shares the differences between leukemia and lymphoma in human terms.

At The Patient Story, we aim to provide straightforward answers for those looking to better understand blood cancers.

This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

What is the difference between lymphoma and leukemia?

Dr. Matthew Matasar: This is a point of confusion because these terms get bandied around a lot. Lymphomas are cancers of lymphocytes; that is a biological term. Leukemia means cancer in the blood. It’s a geographical term. It doesn’t tell you anything about what type of cancer it is.

You can have breast cancer that is in the leukemic phase, meaning it’s a breast cancer, but it’s spread into the bloodstream. You can have prostate cancer in the leukemic phase. You can have lymphomas that are leukemic lymphomas. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a lymphoma that is leukemic. It’s a lymphoma in the bloodstream.

Other types of leukemia are not from lymphocytes but from other types of immune cells. The most common of those is acute myelogenous leukemia or AML. That’s a type of leukemia that comes not from lymphocytes but from myelocytes, a different type of immune cell.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story. This content does not replace professional medical advice.