Relapsed Lymphomas
What Is Relapsed Lymphoma?
Lymphomas are a type of cancer that occurs in the lymphatic system, which is made up of vessels throughout the body that filter and carry infection-fighting white blood cells. Lymphomas are classified as Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, depending on the type of affected lymphocyte. Relapsed lymphoma is cancer that returns after a period of remission. Recurrence can happen soon after initial treatment or years later.
Possible Reasons for Relapse
There can be a variety of factors that can cause a relapse of lymphoma including:
- Cancer cells that were not targeted by treatment and were left behind
- Genetic mutations of cancer cells that make them resistant to treatment
- Interruption of treatment, leaving some cancer cells behind
- Emergence of new, or resistant, cancer cells
- A weakened immune system due to other conditions or treatments
Symptoms of Relapsed Lymphoma
It is important to remember that symptoms can vary depending on the type of lymphoma and treatment. Common symptoms can include:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Abdominal pain
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
- Night sweats
Treating Relapsed Lymphoma
Relapsed lymphoma is often more difficult to treat than newly diagnosed lymphoma because the cancer cells may be resistant to initial therapy. Treatments for relapsed lymphoma may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Surgery
- Stem cell transplant
- Clinical trials
Additionally, to help reduce the risk of recurrence, a patient may also need to take preventive measures such as lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments.
