Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Treatment

What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is a group of blood cancers that originate in the lymphatic system, involving B-lymphocytes or T-lymphocytes. It affects lymph nodes and may involve blood, bone marrow, and organs like the stomach, intestines, and skin.

NHL is not inherited but caused by genetic mutations in lymphocytes. It is categorized based on cell type:

B-lymphocytes (B cells): Produce antibodies.
T-lymphocytes (T cells): Destroy infected/abnormal cells or regulate immune response.

Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Painless swelling of lymph nodes (neck, groin, armpits)
Unexplained fever
Night sweats
Persistent fatigue
Loss of appetite and weight
Chest pain or coughing
Abdominal pain or fullness
Trouble breathing
Skin rashes or itching
Liver or spleen enlargement

Causes

Caused by DNA mutations in lymphocytes. Risk increases with:

Weak immune system
Certain infections
Acquired genetic mutations

Diagnosis

Essential for disease staging and treatment planning. Tests include:

Physical exam: Checks lymph nodes, liver, spleen
Blood & urine tests: Rule out infection
Imaging: X-ray, CT, MRI, PET, Ultrasound, Bone scan
Biopsy: Lymph node or bone marrow sample for lab testing

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on type, stage, and symptoms:

Chemotherapy

Drugs destroy cancer cells
Can be given orally or via injection
Common agents: Cyclophosphamide, Vincristine, Bleomycin

Radiation Therapy

High-powered energy beams target specific cancer sites
Often used with chemotherapy or to treat localized lymphoma

Targeted Therapy

Blocks specific abnormalities in cancer cells
Can be standalone or combined with chemotherapy

CAR-T Cell Therapy

T cells are modified to fight cancer and reinfused
Used for resistant/recurrent B-cell lymphomas

Bone Marrow Transplant

Also known as stem cell transplant
High-dose chemo/radiation suppresses immune system
Healthy stem cells infused to rebuild bone marrow

Immunotherapy

Enhances body’s natural immune response
Common drugs: Obinutuzumab, Ofatumumab, Ibritumomab tiuxetan

Treatment Complications

Weakened immune system
Infections
Infertility due to chemo/radiation
Vaccination safety: Avoid live vaccines

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma dangerous?
A: It can be slow-growing or aggressive. Some types are curable; others are manageable long-term.

Q: Is it curable?
A: Slow-growing types are hard to cure, while aggressive types often respond well to treatment.

Q: Survival rate?
A: Around 73% of patients survive post-diagnosis.

Q: Where does it spread?
A: Typically to liver, lungs, and bone marrow.

Q: What triggers it?
A: Risk increases with immune disorders, infections, and immunosuppressive medications.