CHEMOTHERAPY Chemotherapy refers to treatment using medications that help kill cancer cells. Multiple types of chemotherapy medications are used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Chemotherapy is given in a specific sequenced combination. It is mostly given by IV; however, some drugs are administered by mouth, as a shot, or during a lumbar punc- ture. Your healthcare team will explain in detail the possible side effects of the types of chemotherapy your child will receive.
MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES Monoclonal antibodies are medications that are made in a laboratory and used for some types of cancer. They are usually given along with chemotherapy. These antibodies are made to “attach” to specific mark- ers on the tumor cells. Once this happens, the cells become more visible to the body’s immune system. The immune system can then help attack those cells. Your healthcare team will inform you if a monoclonal antibody will be part of your child’s treatment regimen. SURGERY Surgery is sometimes performed to remove the primary tumor in children with Burkitt’s-type non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The timing of the surgery depends on the site and extent of the tumor; it is often done after several rounds of chemotherapy have been given to help shrink the tumor. Surgery may also depend on whether any nerves or blood vessels are located near or around the tumor. If surgery is necessary, the surgeon and healthcare team will explain what to expect during the recovery period.
n HOW LONG WILL MY CHILD’S THERAPY LAST? The length of therapy depends on the type and stage of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and the treatment plan. Chemotherapy can last from several weeks to 2 years, depending on the type and stage of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Your child’s doctor and healthcare team will review the treatment plan with you in detail.
n WHAT IS MY CHILD’S PROGNOSIS? Non-Hodgkin lymphoma has a very good prognosis. Overall survival of children with non-Hodgkin lym- phoma is now more than 80%, and the majority of children are cured.
n WHAT IF THE NON-HODGKIN LYMPHOMA COMES BACK AFTER TREATMENT? It is possible for the cancer to come back, or recur. If this happens, treatment with additional chemother- apy, monoclonal anitbodies, or stem cell transplant may be offered. A stem cell transplant involves the administration of very high-dose chemotherapy followed by infusion of previously collected stem cells. The stem cells hep the bone marrow to make new blood cells and provide immune function.
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