Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is cancer that originates in your lymphatic system which is the disease-fighting network throughout your body. This network includes the lymphatic vessels, tonsils, adenoids, spleen, thymus and bone marrow. In non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, tumors develop from lymphocytes which is a type of white blood cell.The cause is unknown; it may be triggered by infection or a compromised immune system. It may be linked to gene mutations.
Typical Symptoms for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma
* Fever
* Night sweats
* Swollen glands
* Weight loss that can’t be explained
* Extreme Fatigue
* Stomach or back pain
Role of Radiation Treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma
The role of radiation therapy for the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) depends on the type and stage of disease, and the health status of the patient. Typically, external beam radiation is used.
Three dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D CRT) or intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) may be used. Generally when radiation therapy follows chemotherapy it is usually started 4–6 weeks following the last course of chemotherapy to minimize any drug–radiation sensitization effect.
