WHAT TREATMENT IS THERE FOR NON-HODGKIN’S LYMPHOMAS?
Treatment decisions for non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas are complex. Before starting treatment, the patient might want a second doctor to review the diagnosis and treatment plan. Often, patients are referred to doctors or medical centers that specialize in the different treatments of Hodgkin’s disease. Also, patients may want to talk with their doctor about taking part in a research study of new treatment methods. Methods of Treatment Treatment planning takes into account the type of lymphoma, the stage of the disease, whether it is likely to grow slowly or rapidly, and the general health and age of the patient. For low-grade lymphomas, which usually grow very slowly and cause few symptoms, the doctor may decide to wait until the disease shows signs of spreading before starting treatment. Treatment for intermediate or high-grade lymphomas usually involves chemotherapy, with or without radiation therapy. In addition, surgery may be needed to remove a large tumor. Chemotherapy is the use of drug
