Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and glands that help fight infection and disease. It is the fifth most common type of cancer in the United States.
The treatment of lymphoma depends on the type of lymphoma, the stage of the disease, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplant, and immunotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for lymphoma. It involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs are usually given intravenously (IV) or orally. The drugs used depend on the type of lymphoma and the stage of the disease.
Radiation therapy is another common treatment for lymphoma. It uses high-energy beams of radiation to kill cancer cells. It is usually given in combination with chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment for lymphoma. It uses drugs that target specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells. These drugs can help slow the growth of cancer cells or even kill them.
Stem cell transplant is a treatment option for some types of lymphoma. It involves removing healthy stem cells from the patient's bone marrow or blood and replacing them with healthy stem cells from a donor. This can help the patient's body fight the cancer.
Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
No matter what type of lymphoma a patient has, it is important to work with a doctor to determine the best treatment plan. Treatment options may change over time, so it is important to stay up to date with the latest research and treatments.