Treatment
Each lymphoma is unique; some are more aggressive than others. The physician will also “grade” the cancer based on its apparent aggressiveness. This information, along with the type and location(s) of the lymphoma, are used to guide treatment. The ultimate goal of treatment is to cure the patient. Where this is not possible, the goals are to put the lymphoma into remission for as long as possible, slow it down, relieve symptoms, and to minimize and address complications. If the lymphoma is in an area that allows for its complete surgical removal, such as confined to a single lymph node, then that is the best choice.
When the lymphoma cannot be completely removed, combinations of cancer chemotherapy and radiation are used. For some cases, high dose chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation may be used. Prognosis depends on the stage and grade of the disease and the general health of the patient. All patients, even those whose lymphoma has been “cured” or put into remission, must be monitored for the rest of their lives. Many never experience lymphoma again but in others, it may recur years after the first incidence.
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