What is a key characteristic of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is primarily characterized by the presence of painless lymphadenopathy, which is the swelling of lymph nodes without discomfort. This key feature helps distinguish non-Hodgkin's lymphoma from other conditions that may cause lymph node enlargement, where pain might be more prevalent. The lymph nodes are often affected in various regions of the body, and their enlargement is typically discovered during routine examinations or imaging studies.

While other symptoms may accompany non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss, the hallmark of the disease remains the painless nature of the lymphadenopathy. This aspect is significant in diagnosing and understanding the disease's progression, as well as differentiating it from other types of lymphatic or hematological conditions that may present differently.