SOME ASPECTS OF THE ETIOLOGY OF NON-HODGKINS-LYMPHOMA

in epidemiologic studies, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) has been associ ated with exposure to chemicals such as phenoxyacetic acids; chlorophe nols; dioxins; organic solvents including benzene, polychlorinated bip henyls, chlordanes; and immunosuppressive drugs. Experimental evidence and clinical observations indicate that these chemicals may impair th e immune system. The risk is increased for NHL in persons with acquire d and congenital immune deficiency as well as autoimmune disorders. Al so, certain viruses have been suggested to be of etiologic significanc e for NHL. In some cases of NHL the common mechanism for ail these age nts and conditions may be immunosuppression, possibly in combination w ith viruses.