Lymphoma Treatment in India

Types of Lymphoma Treatment

Some of the treatment used for lymphoma are as follow:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Stem cell transplant
• Watchful waiting
• Experimental treatment

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy medications are used for the treatment of lymphoma. These medications usually kill the cancer cells by limiting their growth. The chemotherapy treatment can also be used in combination with other treatments. 

Radiation Therapy 

In Radiation therapy, X-rays are used to destroy the cancer cells which are high energy radiations. It is often used when lymphoma is in the early stage of the disease. It can also be used to shrink the tumors before other treatments.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy drugs help the body’s natural defense system to fight against cancer cells. These medicines can help in recognizing and attacking the abnormal cancer cells in the body.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy medications kill tumor cells by interfering with specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. They are often used for certain types of lymphomas such as those with specific genetic mutations. 

Stem Cell Transplant

In some cases, when lymphoma is in the last stage of the disease, a stem cell transplant may be performed to treat patients. In this treatment, damaged bone marrow is replaced with healthy stem cells. Stem cells form new blood cells and cure the disease.

Watchful Waiting

Sometimes, for slow-growing or low-risk Lymphomas, a doctor may recommend a watchful waiting approach. In this, doctors closely monitor the cancer cells and their behavior without any treatment.

Experimental treatment

Some patients participate in some new experimental treatments. It involves especially those patients with advanced lymphoma or that which is difficult to treat. This can help in testing new treatments and therapies.

Diagnosis of Lymphoma Treatment

Lymphomas can be diagnosed with any of the following methods:

Blood Tests

Blood tests are performed to check any abnormality in the blood cells. They can also detect the abnormal increase in white blood cells.

Imaging Studies

Sometimes imaging tests are also performed to check any abnormality of the structures. Common imaging methods may include:

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This provides detailed pictures of the body and structures involved in the disease.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: PET scans can help to detect areas of increased activity due to the abnormal division of cancer cells.

X-rays: X-rays may be used to examine specific areas.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that can confirm the disease. It involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the affected area. There are different types of biopsies:

Excisional Biopsy: This biopsy test involves the complete removal of an enlarged lymph node or other affected tissue.

Needle Biopsy: In this type of biopsy, a needle is used to extract a small tissue sample.

Lymph Node Examination

The biopsy sample is sent to a laboratory where it is examined by a technician. This examination provides information about the presence of lymphoma or another condition.

Cost of Lymphoma Treatment in India

The cost of lymphoma treatment in India ranges from 1000 USD to 11,000 USD. The cost can vary according to the type of lymphoma and treatment used for an individual patient. The cost can also vary according to the stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis.

Symptoms & Risk Factors of Lymphoma Treatment

Some of the symptoms of lymphoma are as follows:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats
• Fever
• Persistent cough or chest pain
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Feeling full after eating a small amount of meal
• Itchy skin
• Shortness of breath
• Frequent infections
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Bone pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in bowel habits
• Headaches
• Skin rash
• Neurological symptoms, such as confusion
• Irritation
• Lack of concentration
• Increase susceptibility to sickness

Risk Factors of Lymphomas:

Some of the risk factors of lymphomas are:

Age

Lymphoma disease is most commonly present in young adults of age from 15 years to 35 years or it is present in old age people with age greater than 55 years.

Gender

The lymphomas are mostly present in the male population so the male gender is at risk of developing the disease.

Family History

People who have close family members with the disease lymphomas are at greater risk of developing the same disease at any stage of their life.

Viral Infection

Some specific types of infections, especially viral infections, are associated with the development of lymphomas.

Weakened Immune System

People who have low immunity or have compromised immunity due to some disease or the use of medications are at risk of developing lymphomas.

Exposure to Certain Chemicals

Exposure to some harmful chemicals for a long time can increase the risk of lymphoma.

Radiation Exposure

People who are exposed to high-energy radiation due to occupational reasons or others are at risk of developing cancer including lymphomas.

Obesity

Some studies suggest a possible link between obesity and an increased risk of lymphoma disease.