Treatment:

Treatment depends on how quickly the cancer spreads, the stage of the cancer when you are first diagnosed, and any symptoms.

Chemotherapy is commonly used as the main form of treatment.

Another drug, called rituximab (Rituxan), is often used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Rituxan is a form of immunotherapy. It targets a molecule on the surface of B-cells.

Radioimmunotherapy may be used in some cases. This involves linking a radioactive substance to an antibody that helps the immune system fight infection, and injecting the substance into the body.

In select cases, a stem cell or bone marrow transplant may be needed.

Support Groups:

The stress of illness may be eased by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems.

See: Cancer - support group

Expectations (prognosis):

Low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can't be cured with chemotherapy alone. However, the low-grade form of this cancer progresses slowly, and it may take more than 10 years before the disease gets worse.

Chemotherapy can help cure high-grade lymphoma. However, if the cancer does not respond to chemotherapy drugs, the disease can cause rapid death.

Complications:

• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Infection

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of this disorder.

If you have non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, call your health care provider if you experience persistent fever or other signs of infection.