What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, specifically affecting lymphocytes (white blood cells). There are two main types:
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Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)
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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Common Symptoms
- Painless swelling of lymph nodes
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained fever
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itchy skin
Diagnosis Process
- Physical examination
- Imaging tests (CT, PET scan)
- Lymph node biopsy
- Blood tests
- Bone marrow biopsy (if needed)
Treatment Options
Main Treatment Approaches
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Chemotherapy
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Radiation therapy
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Immunotherapy
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Stem cell transplantation
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Targeted therapy
Factors Affecting Treatment Choice
- Type and stage of lymphoma
- Age and overall health
- Specific genetic markers
- Patient preferences
Managing Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Hair loss
- Decreased blood counts
Coping Strategies
- Regular rest periods
- Proper nutrition
- Exercise as tolerated
- Support groups
Follow-up Care
- Regular check-ups
- Monitoring for recurrence
- Long-term health maintenance
- Survivorship care planning
Support Resources
- Patient support organizations
- Financial assistance programs
- Counseling services
- Nutrition services
When to Contact Your Healthcare Team
Emergency Situations
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Severe bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe pain
Non-Emergency Concerns
- New or worsening symptoms
- Medication side effects
- Questions about treatment
- Emotional support needs