Treatment FAQ

non hodgkins lymphoma how many months of treatment

by Joy Feil Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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A short course of treatment usually takes about 6 to 12 weeks. Or you might have a longer course of chemotherapy and a targeted drug, without radiotherapy. Whether you have radiotherapy depends on factors such as where the lymphoma is in the body and how fit you are.

Medication

Depending on the type and stage (extent) of the lymphoma and other factors, treatment options for people with NHL might include: Chemotherapy for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Immunotherapy for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Targeted Therapy Drugs for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Radiation Therapy for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Procedures

For many people with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, treatment can destroy the lymphoma. Completing treatment can be both stressful and exciting. You may be relieved to finish treatment, but find it hard not to worry about the lymphoma coming back. (When cancer comes back after treatment, it is called recurrence .)

Therapy

The Non-Hodgkin lymphoma survival rates expressed in terms of 5-year relative survival, meaning the percentage of people expected to be alive five years after initial diagnosis are quite impressive when set against many other cancers, and it is evident that early detection favors long-term survival.

Self-care

If your lymphoma appears to be slow growing (indolent) and doesn't cause signs and symptoms, you might not need treatment right away. Instead, your doctor may recommend regular checkups every few months to monitor your condition and whether your cancer is advancing.

Nutrition

What is the best treatment for non Hodgkin lymphoma?

Can non-Hodgkin lymphoma come back?

What is the non-Hodgkin lymphoma survival rate?

Do I need treatment for lymphoma right away?

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How long is treatment for non Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Treatment is normally given in short daily sessions, Monday to Friday, usually for no more than 3 weeks. You shouldn't have to stay in hospital between appointments.

How long can you live with non Hodgkin's lymphoma with treatment?

The overall 5-year relative survival rate for people with NHL is 73%. But it's important to keep in mind that survival rates can vary widely for different types and stages of lymphoma....Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.SEER Stage5-Year Relative Survival RateRegional73%Distant57%All SEER stages combined64%1 more row•Mar 2, 2022

How many rounds of chemo is normal for non Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Most doctors will give 6 cycles of R-CHOP as first-line treatment. After several cycles, doctors may get imaging tests such as a PET/CT scan to see how well treatment is working.

How long do you have chemo for lymphoma?

A typical treatment regimen would be one dose of chemotherapy every 2 - 3 weeks for six months.

Can you live 20 years with lymphoma?

Most people with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma will live 20 years after diagnosis. Faster-growing cancers (aggressive lymphomas) have a worse prognosis. They fall into the overall five-year survival rate of 60%.

Can you live a long life after non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Takeaway. The outlook for people with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma isn't generally as good as that of Hodgkin's lymphoma, but it still has a better outlook than many other cancers. More than 70 percent of people live longer than 5 years after their diagnosis.

How long is a round of chemo?

Most cycles range from 2 to 6 weeks. The number of treatment doses scheduled within each cycle also depends on the prescribed chemotherapy. For example, each cycle may contain only 1 dose on the first day. Or, a cycle may contain more than 1 dose given each week or each day.

How long is a chemo treatment?

Average length of chemotherapy One course of chemo treatment may last between 3 to 6 months. Typically, one course consists of several on-and-off cycles. One cycle usually lasts 2 to 6 weeks.

How many rounds of chemo is normal?

A series of cycles of treatment is called a course. A treatment course often takes between 3 to 6 months but it can be more or less than that. During that time, you would probably have between 4 to 8 cycles of treatment.

Can non Hodgkin's lymphoma be completely cured?

Yes, NHL is a very treatable disease and curable in many cases, particularly with aggressive NHL. Before treatment begins, it is necessary to know how far the cancer has advanced. This is called the stage of the disease.

Can you beat non Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Generally, for people with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in England: around 80 out of every 100 people (around 80%) survive their cancer for 1 year or more after they are diagnosed. around 65 out of every 100 people (around 65%) survive their cancer for 5 years or more after diagnosis.

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Can I Lower My Risk of The Lymphoma Progressing Or Coming back?

If you have (or have had) lymphoma, you probably want to know if there are things you can do that might lower your risk of the lymphoma growing or...

If The Lymphoma Comes Back

If the lymphoma does come back at some point, your treatment options will depend on the type of lymphoma, where it is, what treatments you’ve had b...

Could I Get A Second Cancer After Treatment?

People who’ve had non-Hodgkin lymphoma can still get other cancers. In fact, lymphoma survivors are at higher risk for getting some other types of...

Getting Emotional Support

Some amount of feeling depressed, anxious, or worried is normal when lymphoma is a part of your life. Some people are affected more than others. Bu...

What tests can be done to detect lymphoma?

Imaging tests. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests to look for signs of lymphoma cells elsewhere in your body. Tests may include CT, MRI and positron emission tomography (PET). Lymph node test. Your doctor may recommend a lymph node biopsy procedure to remove all or part of a lymph node for laboratory testing.

How does immunotherapy work?

Immunotherapy uses your immune system to fight cancer. Your body's disease-fighting immune system may not attack your cancer because the cancer cells produce proteins that help them hide from the immune system cells. Immunotherapy works by interfering with that process.

What tests can be done to check for swollen lymph nodes?

Physical exam. Your doctor checks for swollen lymph nodes, including in your neck, underarm and groin, as well as for a swollen spleen or liver. Blood and urine tests. Blood and urine tests may help rule out an infection or other disease. Imaging tests.

What is the best way to kill cancer cells?

Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells. During radiation therapy, you lie on a table and a large machine moves around you, directing the energy beams to specific points on your body.

Can radiation kill lymphoma?

For certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, radiation therapy may be the only treatment you need, particularly if your lymphoma is slow growing and located in just one or two spots. More commonly, radiation is used after chemotherapy to kill any lymphoma cells that might remain.

Can immunotherapy be used for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Immunotherapy drugs may be an option for certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma if other treatments haven't helped. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Review/update the information highlighted below and resubmit the form.

Can a doctor see non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Many types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma exist, including rare forms that some doctors may have never seen . Research shows that having your tissue samples reviewed by an experienced doctor may result in a more accurate diagnosis. If you have any concerns about your diagnosis, consider seeking a second opinion.

Why do you need a CT scan for lymphoma?

You may need frequent blood tests to check that you have recovered from treatment and to look for possible signs of problems such as lymphoma recurrence. Blood counts can also sometimes become abnormal because ...

How to plan for cancer survivorship?

Talk with your doctor about developing a survivorship care plan for you. This plan might include: 1 A suggested schedule for follow-up exams and tests 2 A schedule for other tests you might need in the future, such as early detection (screening) tests for other types of cancer, or tests to look for long-term health effects from your cancer or its treatment 3 A list of possible late- or long-term side effects from your treatment, including what to watch for and when you should contact your doctor 4 Diet and physical activity suggestions

Can non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients get other cancers?

People who’ve had non-Hodgkin lymphoma can still get other cancers. In fact, lymphoma survivors are at higher risk for getting some other types of cancer. Learn more in Second Cancers After Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Does lymphoma go away?

For some people, the lymphoma may never go away completely. These people may get regular treatments with chemo, radiation, or other therapies to help keep the lymphoma in check for as long as possible and to help relieve symptoms. Learning to live with lymphoma that doesn’t go away can be difficult and very stressful.

Is it normal to feel anxious when you have lymphoma?

Some amount of feeling depressed, anxious, or worried is normal when lymphoma is a part of your life. Some people are affected more than others. But everyone can benefit from help and support from other people, whether friends and family, religious groups, support groups, professional counselors, or others.

Can dietary supplements help with lymphoma?

About dietary supplements. So far, no dietary supplements (including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products) have been shown to clearly help lower the risk of lymphoma progressing or coming back. This doesn’t mean that no supplements will help, but it’s important to know that none have been proven to do so.

Do you need to keep medical records after cancer treatment?

Keeping health insurance and copies of your medical records. Even after treatment, it’s very important to keep health insurance. Tests and doctor visits cost a lot, and even though no one wants to think of their cancer coming back, this could happen.

What percentage of NHL patients have follicular lymphoma?

Follicular lymphoma comprises 20% of all NHL and as many as 70% of the indolent lymphomas reported in American and European clinical trials. [ 1 - 3] Most patients with follicular lymphoma are age 50 years and older and present with widespread disease at diagnosis. Nodal involvement is most common and is often accompanied by splenic and bone marrow disease. Rearrangement of the BCL2 gene is present in more than 90% of patients with follicular lymphoma; overexpression of the BCL2 protein is associated with the inability to eradicate the lymphoma by inhibiting apoptosis. [ 4]

What is NK lymphoma?

Extranodal natural killer (NK)-/T-cell lymphoma (nasal type) is an aggressive lymphoma marked by ex tensive necrosis and angioinvasion, most often presenting in extranodal sites, in particular the nasal or paranasal sinus region. [ 68] Other extranodal sites include the palate, trachea, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Hemophagocytic syndrome may occur; historically, these tumors were considered part of lethal midline granuloma. [ 69] In most cases, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genomes are detectable in the tumor cells and immunophenotyping shows CD56 positivity. Cases with blood and marrow involvement are considered NK-cell leukemia.

What is anaplastic large cell lymphoma?

Anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCL) may be confused with carcinomas and are associated with the Ki-1 (CD30) antigen. These lymphomas are usually of T-cell origin, often present with extranodal disease, and are found especially in the skin. [ 51]

What is the most common type of lymphoma?

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common NHL and comprises 30% of newly diagnosed cases. [ 1] Most patients present with rapidly enlarging masses, often with both local and systemic symptoms (designated B symptoms with fever, recurrent night sweats, or weight loss). (Refer to the PDQ summary on Nutrition in Cancer Care for more information on weight loss.)

Where is mantle cell lymphoma found?

Mantle cell lymphoma is found in lymph nodes, the spleen, bone marrow, blood, and sometimes the gastrointestinal system (lymphomatous polyposis). [ 177] Mantle cell lymphoma is characterized by CD5-positive follicular mantle B cells, a translocation of chromosomes 11 and 14, and an overexpression of the cyclin D1 protein. [ 177] Mantle cell lymphoma may be divided into two clinical subtypes: a classical version with lymphadenopathy with high SOX-11 expression that manifests with an aggressive clinical course and a worse prognosis versus a leukemic, non-nodal version with low SOX-11 expression and a more indolent course and a better prognosis. [ 178] A complex karyotype predicts poor response to induction therapy and inferior survival. [ 179] There is frequent overlap on presentation with these subtypes, and the therapeutic implication remains unclear. However, both of these versions can converge later in their course into a blastoid phenotype or treatment-resistant phenotype due to genomic instability and selection. [ 180]

What is marginal lymphoma?

When marginal zone lymphomas involve the nodes, they are called monocytoid B-cell lymphomas or nodal marginal zone B-cell lymphomas, and when they involve extranodal sites (e.g., gastrointestinal tract, thyroid, lung, breast, orbit, and skin), they are called mucosa-associated lymphatic tissue (MALT) lymphomas. [ 74, 75] A prognostic index for all of the marginal zone lymphomas has three adverse prognostic factors: age 70 years or older, stage III or stage IV disease, and high LDH level. [ 76] Fewer than 10% of patients transform to a higher-grade lymphoma; risk factors in one retrospective review included elevated LDH, more than four nodal sites at the time of initial diagnosis of marginal zone lymphoma, and failure to achieve complete response after initial treatment. [ 77]

What is plasmapheresis for lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma?

Plasmapheresis is useful for temporary, acute symptoms (such as retinopathy, congestive heart failure, and central nervous system [CNS] dysfunction) but can be combined with chemotherapy for prolonged control of the disease. Symptomatic patients with a serum viscosity of not more than four are usually started directly on chemotherapy. Therapy may be required to correct hemolytic anemia in patients with chronic cold agglutinin disease; rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and steroids are often employed. [ 44] Occasionally, a heated room is required for patients whose cold agglutinins become activated by even minor chilling.

How long does non-Hodgkin lymphoma stay in check?

Treatment can also keep non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in check for many years, even though imaging or other studies show remaining sites of disease. This situation may be referred to as a “partial remission.”.

What is the goal of lymphoma treatment?

In general, the goal of treatment is to destroy as many lymphoma cells as possible and to induce a complete remission. Complete remission means that all evidence of disease is eliminated. Patients who go into remission are sometimes cured of their disease. Treatment can also keep non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in check for many years, ...

What are the prognostic factors for NHL?

The most effective treatment plan for a patient with NHL is individualized and depends on: Factors, such as fever, drenching night sweats and loss of more than 10 percent of body weight over 6 months, referred to as “B symptoms”. Other prognostic factors, such as age and any underlying medical conditions.

Is age a prognostic factor for lymphoma?

The presence of lymphoma in areas of the body outside of the lymph nodes (extra nodal involvement) Other prognostic factors, such as age and any underlying medical conditions. The patient’s age may be a factor, but older age is no longer a major determinant in treatment for most patients.

How long can you wait to get treatment for NHL?

"About half of all patients can put off treatment for at least 3 years," Abetti says. "Some patients can be in watch-and-wait mode for 10 years or more .". It's possible you'll never need treatment.

Can you wait to get treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?

It's an approach called "watch and wait," and it might be a choice for you if you don't have any pain or other symptoms. Your doctor will keep a close eye on your disease, and they won't start treatment ...

Can you wait to see a doctor for lymphoma?

Also, if you aren't very good about visiting your doctor, watch and wait may not be a good choice. If you wait too long to set up an appointment, your lymphoma may get worse. Pagination. 1.

Does NHL affect kidneys?

Your NHL doesn't affect your heart, lungs, kidneys, or other key organs. "Watch and wait can also be the best approach for some patients diagnosed with widespread NHL that treatment won't likely cure," Abetti says. Even if it's widespread, it may remain stable for years.

Is it hard to accept that you're not actively treating your cancer?

There's a risk that your cancer may change to a fast-growing type. It may also be hard to accept that you're not actively treating your cancer. Tsai says many of his patients struggle with this, but they feel better when they learn that watch and wait is an accepted strategy.

Can you wait to see your doctor if you have a slow growing NHL?

Also, if you aren't very good about visiting your doctor, watch and wait may not be a good choice.

What is the next step for a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patient?

When you’re diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), the next step is to find out the stage of your cancer. That tells you how much lymphoma is in your body, where it is, and if it has spread outside your lymph system, the network that carries immune cells throughout your body. Your doctor uses that information to decide ...

What is the treatment for lymphoma?

But there are some standard treatment approaches for specific stages of NHL: Stage I and stage II: You’ll most likely have chemotherapy, with or without other treatments, such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy.

How do you get rid of lymphoma cells?

You can use your own stem cells or get them from a donor. Then, you get high doses of chemotherapy and radiation to kill all the lymphoma cells in your body. After that, the stem cells go into your body, where they grow and rebuild healthy blood cells over time.

Where does lymphoma spread?

Stage IV lymphoma has spread outside your lymph nodes to many places in your body. NHL tends to spread to the bone marrow, liver, lungs, and the fluid around the brain. Continued. Sometimes doctors just call NHL limited or advanced. Stage I and some stage II lymphomas fall into the limited group.

Can lymphoma spread to the brain?

You might need intrathecal chemotherapy if there’s a risk the lymphoma could spread to the fluid around your brain and spinal cord. To have this treatment, your care team will put a thin needle between the bones of your lower back and put the chemo drugs right into your spinal fluid.

How many people in the US have non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Each year, approximately 65,500 people in the US will receive a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and over 20,000 people will succumb to the disease annually. The median age at diagnosis for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is 66.

What is the name of the cancer that affects the lymphocytes in the body?

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is a very broad term for cancers affecting the lymphocytes in the body's immune system and varying the Non-Hodgkin lymphoma survival rate. The disease generally presents as painless, rubbery swollen lymph nodes in the neck, clavicle or groin, although lymphoma can originate virtually anywhere in ...

What are the treatments for NHL?

These are: radiotherapy. chemotherapy. stem cell or bone marrow transplant. targeted drugs. You might have more intensive treatment than you had at first.

Can lymphoma be cured?

the treatment you have already had. your general health. Even if your lymphoma can't be cured, your doctor can give you some treatment to control it. They might be able to keep you well for long periods at a time.

Can you get a non-Hodgkin lymphoma if it comes back?

If your non-Hodgkin lymphoma comes back. Many people with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are cured. But your doctor cannot know straight away whether your lymphoma will come back or not. If your NHL comes back after treatment, your doctor might still be able to cure it. This depends on:

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Diagnosis

Treatment

Clinical Trials

Alternative Medicine

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Karthikeya T M
Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
The choice of treatment is based on the type and stage of lymphoma, age and overall health of the patient. Slow growing lymphoma may not require any treatment, but a regular follow-up may be recommended.
Medication

Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells; administered orally or intravenously.

Cyclophosphamide . Doxorubicin


Targeted therapy: To improve body’s immune system.

Rituximab

Procedures

Bone marrow transplantation: It is also known as stem cell transplant and the therapy involves introducing healthy bone marrow stem cells from a donor.

Therapy

Radiation therapy:High-powered energy beams like X-rays are used to kill cancerous cells and shrink tumors.

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Learn about your condition.
  • Keep your family and friends informed of your condition.
  • Eat a healthy and nutritious diet.
  • Remain active.

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Foods rich in carbohydrates like rice, bread and pasta
  • Foods rich in vitamins and minerals like fruits and vegetables
  • Milk and other dairy Foods

Foods to avoid:

  • Foods rich in saturated fats like butter, meat and cakes
  • Processed Foods like sausages and crisps

Specialist to consult

Oncologist
Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Hematologist
Specializes in the study of the blood and blood disorders.

Coping and Support

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Your doctor will likely ask you about your personal and family medical history. He or she may then have you undergo tests and procedures used to diagnose non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, including: 1. Physical exam.Your doctor checks for swollen lymph nodes, including in your neck, underarm and groin, as well as for a swollen
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Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Several non-Hodgkin's lymphoma treatments are available. Which treatment or combination of treatments is best for you will depend on the particulars of your lymphoma, such as the types of cells involved and whether your lymphoma is aggressive. Your doctor also considers your overall health and your preferences. If your lymphoma appears to be slow growing (indolent) and doesn'…
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Types of Treatment

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
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Factors That Influence Treatment

  • No alternative medicines have been found to cure non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. But alternative medicine may help you cope with the stress of a cancer diagnosis and the side effects of cancer treatment. Talk with your doctor about your options, such as: 1. Art therapy 2. Exercise 3. Meditation 4. Music therapy 5. Relaxation exercises 6. Spirituality
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Pretreatment Considerations

  • A non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis can be overwhelming. The following strategies and resources may help you deal with cancer: 1. Learn about non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.Learn enough about your cancer to feel comfortable making decisions about your treatment and care. In addition to talking with your doctor, look for information in your local library and on the internet. …
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The International Prognostic Index

  • Make an appointment with your family doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you. If your doctor suspects you have a type of lymphoma, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in diseases that affect blood cells (hematologist). Because appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot of information to discuss, it's a good idea to be well prepared. He…
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Treatment Setting

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