Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment in India

Types & Procedures of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment in India

Some of the treatment used for non-Hodgkin 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 non-Hodgkin 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 non-Hodgkin lymphoma is in the early stage of 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 the 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 NHL such as those with specific genetic mutations. 

Stem Cell Transplant

In some cases, when non-Hodgkin 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 non-Hodgkin 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 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma or that which is difficult to treat. This can help in testing new treatments and therapies.

Cost & Diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment in India

Some of the diagnostic methods used for non-Hodgkin lymphoma are:

Blood Tests

Blood tests are performed to check any abnormality of blood cells. It can also be performed to check the functions of different organs.

Imaging Studies

Different imaging tests are used to obtain a clear picture of organs and lymph nodes. These are:
CT Scan: Computed tomography scans provide detailed images of the body.
MRI Scan: Magnetic resonance imaging is used to visualize soft tissues and organs.
PET Scan: Positron emission tomography scans help to identify areas of high metabolic activity, which can be a sign of lymphoma.

Biopsy

A biopsy test is performed to confirm the diagnosis of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. In this test, a tissue is extracted and checked under laboratory settings for any cancer cell. There are different biopsies used:
Excisional Biopsy: Removing the entire lymph node or tumor.
Incisional Biopsy: Removing a portion of the lymph node or tumor.
Needle Biopsy: Using a thin needle to extract a sample.

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

If non-Hodgkin lymphoma is suspected to involve the central nervous system, a lumbar puncture may be performed to examine the fluid around the brain and spinal cord for lymphoma cells.

Cost of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment in India

The cost of non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment in India ranges from ₹ 5,20,000 to ₹ 6,50,000. The cost can vary according to the type of treatment used for the disease. It can also vary according to the need for additional treatment sessions for each patient.

City Wise Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment Costs in India

Symptoms & Risk Factors of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment

Some of the symptoms of non-Hodgkin 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 non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Some of the risk factors that are associated with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma are as follows:

Age

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma is most commonly present in older adults. So the risk increases with age.

Gender

Men are at greater risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma than females because the disease is more prevalent in men.

Weakened Immune System

Individuals with low immunity or weak immune systems are at greater risk of developing the disease. It can also occur in patients who have a history of organ transplant surgery.

Infections

Some infections can also increase the risk of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. For example, viruses that weaken the immunity of patients can lead to the development of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Family History

A positive family history of non-Hodgkin lymphomas increases the risk of disease in some of the patients.

Chemical Exposures

Long-term exposure to chemicals such as in industries and occupational places can increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Radiation Exposure

Patients who receive radiation therapy in the treatment of previous cancer are at greater risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Obesity

Some types of non-Hodgkin lymphomas can occur due to excess weight.

Certain Medications

Some medications can be a risk factor for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For example, medicines used after organ transplant can increase the risk. 

Diet and Lifestyle

Poor diet which contains high fat is also associated with the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Physical inactivity can also be a risk.