Lymphoma Treatment
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, an important part of the body’s immune system. It occurs when certain white blood cells, known as lymphocytes, begin to grow abnormally and multiply uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can affect the lymph nodes and other parts of the body, including the spleen, bone marrow and other organs.
An early diagnosis and appropriate lymphoma treatment can play an important role in managing the disease. With advances in cancer care, several treatment options are available depending on the type, stage and overall health of the patient.
Dr. Abhishek Bansal focuses on an individualised approach to cancer care, helping patients understand their diagnosis and available treatment options. The treatment plan is determined according to the patient’s medical condition, disease progression and treatment requirements.
Types of Lymphoma
Lymphoma is mainly classified into two major types. Identifying the correct type is essential for selecting an appropriate treatment approach.
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops in lymphocytes, a kind of white blood cell. It is characterised by the presence of abnormal cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells in classical Hodgkin lymphoma.
It commonly affects lymph nodes in the neck, chest and underarms. With an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many patients with Hodgkin lymphoma can achieve successful treatment outcomes.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma includes a diverse group of cancers that develop in lymphocytes. It may grow slowly or progress more rapidly, depending on its specific subtype.
The treatment approach depends on the lymphoma subtype, stage, symptoms and overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and radiation therapy.
Common Symptoms of Lymphoma
The symptoms of lymphoma can vary from one person to another. Some patients may experience noticeable changes, while others may have symptoms that develop gradually.
Common signs and symptoms include:
Painless swelling or lumps in the neck, armpits or groin
Persistent fever without a known cause
Excessive sweating during the night
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent tiredness and weakness
Itchy skin without an obvious reason
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath or persistent cough
Abdominal pain, swelling or discomfort
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate lymphoma, as they can also occur due to other medical conditions. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How Is Lymphoma Diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis is the first step towards planning effective lymphoma treatment. Doctors may recommend different tests to identify the type of lymphoma, understand its stage and assess whether it has affected other parts of the body.
Common diagnostic tests include:
- Physical Examination
- Blood Tests
- Lymph Node Biopsy
- PET-CT Scan
- CT Scan
- Bone Marrow Examination
Lymphoma Treatment Options
Lymphoma treatment depends on several factors, including the type of lymphoma, its stage, how quickly it is growing and the patient’s overall health. Not every patient requires the same treatment.
Dr. Abhishek Bansal follows an individualised approach to cancer treatment, with treatment decisions based on the patient’s diagnosis and medical requirements.
Common lymphoma treatment options include:
1. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer medicines to destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing. It is commonly used to treat different types of lymphoma and may be given through an injection, infusion or oral medication.
2. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognise and fight cancer cells. Certain immunotherapy medicines are used for specific types of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
3. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medicines designed to act on specific proteins or pathways involved in cancer cell growth. It may be recommended for certain lymphoma subtypes based on their biological characteristics.
4. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells in a particular area of the body. It may be recommended for selected patients, depending on the type and stage of lymphoma.
5. Stem Cell Transplant
A stem cell transplant may be considered in selected patients, particularly when lymphoma returns after treatment or does not respond adequately to initial therapy.
