"What Are the Treatment Options for Long-Term Lymphoma Management?"
Lymphoma: Understanding Its Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Lymphoma, a malignant tumor, can occur in any part of the body. In its early stages, it commonly manifests as swollen lymph nodes, accompanied by symptoms such as fever and night sweats. The diagnosis of long-term lymphoma involves clinical manifestations, imaging studies, and pathological examinations. Treatment options are chosen based on pathological staging and may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted drug therapy, immunotherapy, among others.
1. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the primary treatment modality for lymphoma. Commonly used chemotherapeutic drugs include cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and adriamycin. For non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, such as mycosis fungoides, a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be administered.
2. Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy is suitable for local recurrent or residual lesions and for patients undergoing conservative treatment. Common radiotherapy protocols include stereotactic radiotherapy, intensity-modulated radiotherapy, and conventional radiotherapy. Palliative radiotherapy can be administered to patients with advanced lymphoma.
3. Targeted Drug Therapy
Targeted drug therapy allows for tailored selection through genetic testing. Commonly prescribed drugs include rituximab and cetuximab.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is indicated for patients who respond to biological immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The PD-1 inhibitor is a commonly used drug in this context.
5. Other Treatments
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is suitable for patients with high-risk, refractory Hodgkin's lymphoma, improving their quality of life and extending survival. In addition to the aforementioned treatments, immunotherapy may also be employed. Patients with lymphoma should actively cooperate with their doctors in the treatment process while maintaining an optimistic mindset. Regular attention should be paid to nutrition, exercise, and immune system enhancement, avoiding fatigue and exposure to cold.
