Lymphoma Treatments
The goal of treatment is to destroy the cancer cells and help people feel better. Using Adcetris (Brentuximab vedotin) can help. It's a medication used to treat certain types of lymphoma.
Adcetris (Brentuximab vedotin)
Adcetris is an antibody-drug conjugate, which means it targets cancer cells directly and delivers a drug that helps kill the cancer. Adcetris works by attaching to a protein on the cancer cells, making it a very targeted treatment. This can help limit damage to healthy cells and reduce side effects. It is given through an IV and is often used in combination with other treatments.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for lymphoma. It uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. These medicines can be given through an IV, as pills or sometimes both. Chemotherapy can be effective, but it can also affect healthy cells, which may cause side effects like hair loss or tiredness. Doctors carefully monitor patients during chemotherapy to help manage side effects and adjust treatment as needed.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used for lymphoma in areas where the cancer is localized. For example, if the lymphoma is in just one part of the body, radiation can help shrink or eliminate the cancer in that area. Radiation can also be used after chemotherapy to ensure all cancer cells are removed. It may cause some side effects, such as skin irritation or fatigue, but these usually go away after treatment.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It can help the body recognize and destroy lymphoma cells. One example of immunotherapy used for lymphoma is checkpoint inhibitors. These medications help the immune system work better by blocking signals that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer. Immunotherapy can sometimes cause side effects like flu-like symptoms or skin rashes, but it can be very effective, especially for certain types of lymphoma.
Stem Cell Transplant
In some cases, a stem cell transplant might be used to treat lymphoma. This treatment involves replacing damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Stem cell transplants are typically used after chemotherapy or radiation to help rebuild the immune system and restore the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. There are two types of stem cell transplants: autologous (using your own stem cells) and allogeneic (using stem cells from a donor). This treatment can be challenging and may require time in the hospital for recovery.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules that help cancer cells grow. These therapies are designed to target only cancer cells, so they often cause fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy. Targeted therapies can be used to treat lymphoma that hasn’t responded to other treatments. They can come in the form of pills or injections and are often used alongside other treatments like chemotherapy.
Living with Lymphoma
Lymphoma treatment can be tough, but many people respond well to the therapies mentioned above. It’s important to stay in close contact with your healthcare team to monitor progress and manage side effects. A healthy diet, regular exercise and emotional support can also help people with lymphoma stay strong throughout their treatment.
Understanding and Treating Lymphoma
Lymphoma treatments like Adcetris, chemotherapy and radiation can be very effective in fighting the disease. Doctors will recommend the best treatment plan based on the type of lymphoma and the person’s health needs. With the right care and support, many people with lymphoma can lead active and healthy lives.