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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Days In Hospital 10 days
- Outside Hospital Stay 30 days
- Success Rate 85%
Minimum Cost
$ 6500
Maximum Cost.
$ 8000
Most Asked Procedures
Overview of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in India
The lymphatic system, the body's natural defence against infections, is where non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer, develops. A kind of white blood cell called a lymphocyte can develop into non-Hodgkin lymphoma when it becomes malignant. White blood cells in the blood begin to proliferate and grow out of control in this illness. These cells interfere with the regular function of blood cells because of their aberrant behaviour.
In India, non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment costs range from USD 4,200 to USD 5,600 for Indian patients. For patients from abroad, the price ranges from USD 6,300 to USD 7,700. Similar to other cancer treatments, immunotherapy medications, targeted therapies, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Bone marrow transplantation is utilised for severe situations.
What Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
A class of blood malignancies known as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) arises in the lymphatic system. Lymphoma is one of two forms of the malignancy that originates in lymphocytes, which are white blood cells. Essential immune system cells that aid in the defence against infections are lymphocytes.
Genes within T lymphocytes (T cells) or B lymphocytes (B cells) may undergo mutation or change at some point during your life if you have non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Usually, the aberrant lymphoma cells develop into tumours in your lymph nodes. However, they may also be found in lymph tissue in other locations or other organs of the lymphatic system, such as the spleen or thymus. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma has the potential to spread and become fatal if left untreated.
Thanks to breakthrough medicines, people with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are living longer than ever before. Sometimes the problem can be cured with medication. In other cases, treatment aims to prolong the remission of the disease or the absence of cancerous signs and symptoms.
Types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma comes in several forms, each with unique traits and therapeutic approaches. We will examine a few of the prevalent forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and give a synopsis of each in this post.
B-Cell Lymphomas
White blood cells called B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies, give rise to B-cell lymphomas, the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Diffuse Large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL): About 30 to 40 percent of cases of B-cell lymphoma are Diffuse Large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), making it the most prevalent subtype of the disease. Despite being an aggressive type of lymphoma, it is more likely to be cured with the proper care.
Mantle cell lymphoma: This type of B-cell lymphoma is relatively uncommon and typically affects older individuals. Although it has a reputation for being aggressive, stem cell transplantation and targeted medicines can effectively manage it.
Lymphoblastic lymphoma: This type of lymphoma is marked by immature T or B cells in the lymph nodes and mainly affects children and young adults. For better results, it needs to be treated quickly with targeted medicines, including chemotherapy.
Burkitt lymphoma: Mostly affecting children and young people, Burkitt lymphoma is an aggressive kind of B-cell lymphoma. Intensive chemotherapy is necessary because it grows quickly, but if the cancer is treated quickly, there is a good possibility that it will be cured.
T-Cell Lymphomas
T cells, a subset of white blood cells that are essential to the immune response, are the source of T-cell lymphomas.
Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL): The term "peripheral T-cell lymphoma" (PTCL) describes a class of uncommon and varied T-cell lymphomas that can impact numerous body organs. Stem cell transplantation, targeted treatments, and chemotherapy are available treatment options.
Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL): This uncommon form of T-cell lymphoma often presents with systemic symptoms. Immunotherapy, targeted treatments, and chemotherapy can be used to manage it, but it needs to be treated quickly.
Systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL): Usually affecting children and young adults, systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare form of T-cell lymphoma. With the proper care, including chemotherapy and targeted medications, the prognosis is favourable.
Hepatosplenic gamma/delta T-cell lymphoma: The rare subtype of T-cell lymphoma known as hepatosplenic gamma/delta T-cell lymphoma mainly affects the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Stem cell transplantation and chemotherapy are two possible treatment strategies.
Indolent B-cell Lymphomas
Slow-growing non-Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes known as indolent B-cell lymphomas frequently exhibit fewer symptoms than aggressive lymphomas.
Follicular lymphoma: When it comes to indolent B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma is the most prevalent kind. Painless swollen lymph nodes typically characterise the condition and can be treated with immunotherapy, targeted treatments, radiation therapy, and watchful waiting.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL): The conditions known as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are closely related and are characterised by the buildup of aberrant B cells in the bone marrow, blood, and other components. Stem cell transplantation, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, watchful waiting, and targeted medicines are among the available treatment options.
Marginal zone lymphoma: Originates from marginal zone B cells and primarily affects older individuals. The location and severity of the disease will determine the available treatment choices, which may include immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and watchful waiting.
Waldenström macroglobulinemia (lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma): Known as lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia is an uncommon form of indolent B-cell lymphoma that is distinguished by the presence of monoclonal IgM, an aberrant protein. To lower the levels of IgM, treatment options include plasmapheresis, targeted treatments, and cautious waiting.
Indolent B-cell Lymphomas
Compared to aggressive lymphomas, indolent B-cell lymphomas are slower-growing forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that frequently exhibit fewer symptoms.
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: This type of cancer targets the skin and can manifest as tumours, plaques, or rashes. It is often a slow-growing lymphoma that can be controlled with targeted medicines, phototherapy, topical treatments, and chemotherapy if required.
How Common Are Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas?
They are relatively widespread. In 2024, there will likely be 80,620 new instances of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the United States, making it the eighth most prevalent cancer diagnosis. It ranks as the eleventh most pervasive cancer globally.
In comparison to Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is far more prevalent.
Understanding the various stages of this illness is essential, as it helps determine the best course of treatment and the patient's prognosis. The four phases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma will be thoroughly discussed here.
Stage 1
- Stage 1 cancer is typically found in a single lymph node or a collection of lymph nodes in a single area.
- No other bodily parts have been affected.
- For stage 1 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, surgery or radiation therapy are typically the available treatment options.
Stage 2
- Two or more clusters of lymph nodes on the same side of the diaphragm are affected by the malignancy in stage 2.
- The muscle that divides the chest from the abdomen is called the diaphragm.
- The spleen and other adjacent organs may be affected by stage 2 non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a mix of the two may be used to treat stage 2.
Stage 3
- At stage three, the diaphragm has cancer on both sides.
- Other organs or regions outside the lymphatic system may have been affected by the disease's spread.
- Chemotherapy, in conjunction with immunotherapy or targeted therapy, is a standard treatment option for stage III.
Stage 4
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma reaches its most advanced stage at stage 4.
- Multiple organs or regions outside the lymphatic system have been affected by the cancer's spread.
- Radiation therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation are possible treatments for stage 4.
Procedure:
Chemotherapy
One therapeutic option for non-Hodgkin lymphoma is chemotherapy. By preventing the growth and division of cancer cells, these drugs typically lead to the death of these cells. Additionally, chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Radiation Therapy
The cancer cells are subjected to high-energy radiation during radiation therapy, which uses X-rays to kill them. It is frequently applied when non-Hodgkin lymphoma is still in its early stages of development. Before receiving further treatment, it can also be used to reduce the size of the tumours.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy medications strengthen the body's inherent defences against cancer cells. These medications can aid in the identification and destruction of the body's aberrant cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
By interfering with particular chemicals involved in the proliferation of cancer cells, targeted treatment drugs destroy tumour cells. For some NHL types, such as those with specific genetic alterations, they are frequently used.
Stem Cell Transplant
In certain instances, patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma who are nearing the end of their illness may benefit from a stem cell transplant. Healthy stem cells are used in this procedure to repair damaged bone marrow. Stem cells aid in the treatment of illnesses and create new blood cells.
Watchful Waiting
A physician may occasionally advise a cautious waiting strategy for non-Hodgkin lymphomas that are low-risk or slow-growing. In this case, doctors closely monitor the behaviour of the cancer cells without administering any medication.
Experimental Treatment
A few patients take part in novel experimental therapies. Patients with difficult-to-treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma or those with advanced disease are particularly affected. This can support the testing of novel medications and treatments.
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Indications of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
Understanding the signs of non-Hodgkin lymphoma is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. There are several common symptoms to watch out for, though the exact signals can differ from person to person. In this section, we will examine some of the specific symptoms that are linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Common Signs
- Swollen lymph nodes: Typically found in the neck, armpits, or groin, swelling of the lymph nodes is one of the most apparent signs of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Unexplained weight loss: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be the cause of your weight loss if you are losing it without trying or if your appetite has diminished.
- Fatigue: Even with adequate sleep, feeling weak or exhausted all the time could be a sign of this kind of cancer.
- Fever: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be the cause of recurrent fevers that come and go for no apparent reason.
- Night sweats: Another possible symptom to be on the lookout for is overwhelming night sweats that keep you up at night and leave you drenched in perspiration.
Specific Symptoms
Although these are typical symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, it's essential to remember that each person may experience unique symptoms based on several variables, including the stage and location of the disease. Other distinct signs of non-Hodgkin lymphoma include the following:
- Chronic chest discomfort or coughing
- Breathing difficulties or shortness of breath
- Pain or swelling in the abdomen
- Itching or a skin rash
- Neurological symptoms or headaches
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Causes
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma has a variety of causes, and understanding the underlying causes can facilitate prevention and early identification. The following are the two leading causes of this kind of cancer development:
Cellular Origin
- The lymphatic system, a component of the body's immune system, is where non-Hodgkin lymphoma typically originates.
- It begins when some lymphocytes, which are cells in the lymphatic system, start to develop uncontrollably and improperly.
- It's still unclear exactly why these cells develop into cancer. However, research indicates that several factors, including immune system abnormalities, exposure to specific chemicals or radiation, and infections, may increase the likelihood of contracting the illness.
Genetic Predisposition
- Despite not being regarded as an inherited disease, non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be more likely to develop in those who have certain genetic predispositions.
- A higher incidence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma has been associated with specific gene mutations or abnormalities.
- It is crucial to remember that the presence of these genetic alterations does not ensure the onset of cancer. Many people who carry these mutations never get sick.
Physicians use several procedures to assess the existence and severity of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) before making a diagnosis. Let's take a closer look at these diagnostic techniques:
Physical Examination
Your doctor will examine you physically to look for any enlarged lymph nodes or other NHL symptoms, like an enlarged liver or spleen.
Blood tests
Blood tests can help identify anomalies in the blood, such as elevated white blood cell counts or excessive concentrations of specific proteins. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) may be present based on these anomalies.
Imaging Studies
Imaging tests, including X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans, can help detect cancers or enlarged lymph nodes, providing detailed images of the body. In addition to identifying any spread to other bodily parts, these scans help determine the NHL's stage.
Lymph node biopsy
An enlarged lymph node's tissue is sampled during a biopsy, and it is then examined under a microscope. Along with providing details on the type and subtype of lymphoma present, this method aids in confirming the NHL diagnosis.
Immunophenotyping
A laboratory technique called immunophenotyping aids in the classification of NHL by identifying the particular protein types seen on the surface of cancer cells. Determining the best course of treatment requires knowledge of this information.
Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
Because hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses can raise the chance of developing specific forms of NHL, testing for these viruses is crucial. By recognising these infections, medical professionals can offer suitable treatment alternatives.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
HIV impairs immunity, increasing a person's risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). To identify any underlying illnesses and administer the required care, HIV testing is crucial.
Risk Factors:
Several risk factors for non-Hodgkin lymphoma have been identified; however, the precise aetiology remains unknown. People can take preventive action when needed and make well-informed decisions about their health by being aware of these risk factors.
Environmental Factors
Certain environmental factors have been found to raise the likelihood of non-Hodgkin lymphoma development. These consist of:
- Pesticide and herbicide exposure: Research has linked prolonged exposure to specific agricultural chemicals to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers.
- Radiation exposure: The chance of getting this kind of cancer may be raised by prior radiation treatment or by exposure to high radiation levels, such as those found in nuclear accidents.
- Occupational exposure: Due to possible exposure to dangerous chemicals, some jobs, including farming, firefighting, and working in the chemical industry, have been associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Immunosuppression
People who have compromised immune systems are more susceptible to non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This encompasses those who:
- Taken immunosuppressive medications to avoid organ rejection after receiving an organ transplant.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is among the many cancers they are more susceptible to due to their HIV infection, which impairs immunity.
Infections
A higher incidence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma has been associated with specific infections. These consist of:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): Long-term Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection has been linked to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and this common virus can cause infectious mononucleosis.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): In addition to causing stomach ulcers, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has been connected to a higher risk of developing some stomach-originating non-Hodgkin lymphoma types.
Complications Associated with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
It is essential to recognise that while the primary objective of treatment is to eliminate cancer cells, various side effects may occur both during and after the treatment course. From temporary adverse effects to chronic health issues, these consequences can manifest in multiple forms. Let's examine a few possible side effects included in the management of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Side Effects of Treatment
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy, which uses potent medications that destroy cancer cells, is one of the main treatments for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, side effects from chemotherapy can also include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection.
Radiation Therapy: Another standard treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma is radiation therapy. It targets and destroys cancer cells with high-energy radiation beams. Although this treatment has the potential to be beneficial, it may also have negative consequences, including exhaustion, skin irritation, and long-term tissue damage.
Immunotherapy: A more recent method of treating non-Hodgkin lymphoma is immunotherapy, which uses the immune system's ability to identify and eliminate cancer cells. Immunotherapy is usually well-tolerated, although it may cause autoimmune reactions, skin rashes, and flu-like symptoms.
Long-Term Complications
Secondary Carcinomas: Several non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatments may increase the risk of developing secondary malignancies in the future. Patients who have received specific forms of chemotherapy or radiation therapy are at the highest risk for this.
Cardiovascular Issues: Some chemotherapy medications used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma may have long-term consequences on cardiac health. Over time, they can weaken the heart muscle or raise the risk of heart disease.
Infertility: Both men and women may experience infertility as a result of reproductive organ damage after chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Before beginning treatment, patients should talk to their healthcare team about their choices for fertility preservation.
Cognitive Issues: According to some studies, those who have not survived Hodgkin lymphoma may have mental health difficulties, including trouble focusing or memory loss. This is known as "chemo brain" and can impact everyday functioning and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
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It is generally possible to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and with a variety of therapy choices, many individuals can obtain a cure or long-term remission. The patient's general health as well as the type and stage of the lymphoma determine the precise treatment plan.
Many patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma live long, healthy lives after receiving treatment, even though it is a dangerous malignancy. Depending on the type of lymphoma, its growth and dissemination pace (grade and stage), and the patient's overall condition, the severity of non-Hodgkin lymphoma can vary significantly.
In India, non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment costs range from USD 4,200 to USD 5,600 for Indian patients. For patients from abroad, the price ranges from USD 6,300 to USD 7,700. Similar to other cancer treatments, immunotherapy medications, targeted therapies, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Bone marrow transplantation is utilised for severe situations.