Which of the following is a characteristic of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a diverse group of blood cancers characterized by the proliferation of lymphoid tissue. One of its key features is that it can arise from both B cells and T cells, as opposed to Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is specifically associated with the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

A defining characteristic of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is its potential to involve extra-nodal sites, meaning it can affect areas outside of typical lymphatic structures, such as the spleen, liver, bones, or even skin, among others. This ability to manifest in locations beyond lymph nodes underscores the heterogeneous nature of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and differentiates it from other forms of lymphomas that might be more localized.

While it's true that some patients may experience pain due to lymphadenopathy or other related causes, pain is not a universal or defining feature of the disease. Additionally, stating that Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma affects only B cells is incorrect, as it encompasses a variety of types affecting both B and T lymphocytes. The presence of Reed-Sternberg cells is characteristic of Hodgkin's lymphoma specifically, not Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is why the answer regarding extra-nodal