Treatment for Lymphoma

When a lymphocyte mutates to a form that is far from its original structure and purpose, this condition is termed as lymphoma. The T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes are usually the ones that undergo malignant changes. When these cancerous cells mutate and build in number, they can cause formation of non-tender and rubbery lymph nodes, night sweats, weight loss, and fever. If the cancer cells reach the spleen and liver, abdominal distension due to spleen and liver enlargement is noted. If the malignancy has reached both bone marrow and spleen, anemia can result due to compromised production of red blood cells. Definite treatment for lymphoma is not yet fully identified. However, several treatment modalities are used to fight the disease and increase the relative 5-year survival rate of a person with lymphoma.

Ø Chemotherapy – this treatment for lymphoma is the utilization of drugs designed to interrupt the DNA make-up and metabolism of malignant cells. The problem with chemotherapy is that it also targets healthy cells in the body such as those in the skin and GI tract. This treatment can be done in both early and late stage lymphoma, but it is mostly done on later stages. Sometimes, steroids are used along with chemotherapeutic agents.

Ø Radiotherapy – when lymphoma is diagnosed at Stage I and Stage II, this treatment for lymphoma is preferred for it can be used to target just a local area in the body. Radiotherapy is preferred for inducing a long duration of remission, as well as increased survival rate in lymphoma. 

Ø Immunotherapy – immune-stimulant drugs such as Rituximab works by stimulating the immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells. 

Ø Stem cell treatment – when all other treatment for lymphoma is not effective, bone marrow transplant is done. This is done to promote growth of new blood cells to help the patient recover from the prolonged effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. 

Each type of treatment is always based on the stage of lymphoma. Age and level of activity is also considered when determining just how aggressive the treatment would be. Proper application of treatment for lymphoma, and complying to treatment regimen greatly affects the survival rate in lymphoma.