Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Alternative names:

histiocytic lymphoma; lymphoblastic lymphoma; lymphocytic lymphoma; lymphoma - non-Hodgkin's; lymphosarcoma; reticulum cell sarcoma

Treatment:

Treatment depends upon the stage of the disease. Low-grade disease may just need to be observed. When treatment becomes necessary, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used. Patients with more aggressive or resistant disease may require more intensive therapy. High-dose chemotherapy with bone marrow transplantation may be a treatment option in selected cases.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The median survival is 6 to 8 years in low-grade lymphoma.
Prognosis of high-grade lymphoma depends upon the response to chemotherapy or other treatment, with about 30% being cured.

Complications:

• infections resulting from immune suppression from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or low gamma globulin secondary to disease
• autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop.

If you have non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, call your health care provider if you experience persistent fever or other signs of infection.