LYMPHOMA, NON-HODGKIN'S(Lymphosarcoma; Reticulum Cell Sarcoma) |
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LYMPHOMA, NON-HODGKIN'S
(Lymphosarcoma; Reticulum Cell Sarcoma)
DESCRIPTIONNon-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a malignant tumor of the lymph glands. This is more common than Hodgkin's disease. The lymphocytes (white blood cells), the lymph glands (glands which check infection and produce immune substances), and the spleen (a large lymph gland) are involved.
Appropriate health care includes:
Physician's monitoring of general condition and medications.
Hospitalization for short periods of treatment.
Surgery to discover the extent of disease.
Radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Swollen, non-tender, rubbery, distinct lymph glands anywhere in the child's body--but most commonly in the armpit, neck, or groin.
Weight loss.
General ill feeling.
Anemia.
Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.
Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes).
CAUSES
Unknown, but research suggests a virus infection may be a factor.
RISK FACTORS
Family history of lymphoma.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCENo specific preventive measures.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory studies of blood and bone marrow.
Lymphangiogram (See Glossary).
Biopsy (See Glossary) of lymph node.
X-rays of various body parts that may be involved.
CAT or CT scan (See Glossary).
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSSpread of cancer to other parts of the body.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Usually curable with radiation therapy and anti-cancer drugs. If cured, your child's life expectancy is normal. The potential for cure varies according to the cell type discovered from biopsy of the lymph node. Consult your doctor.
TREATMENT
HOME CARETry to remain optimistic about the treatment and chances for cure. A good mental attitude is a powerful ally to you and your child.
MEDICATION
Your doctor may prescribe anti-cancer drugs. Medication may cause side effects or adverse reactions in some children. New symptoms may be caused by the medicine, by the original disorder, or by a new illness. Side effects caused by medicine usually disappear when the child's body adjusts to the drug or when the drug is discontinued.
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
Your child should remain as active as strength allows.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?Yes, during remission and when appetite has returned and alertness, strength, and feeling of well-being will allow.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
Your child has symptoms of lymphoma.
The following occurs during treatment:
-- Fever.
-- Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness) anywhere in the body.
-- Swelling of the feet and ankles.
-- Discomfort when urinating or decreased urination in any 24-hour period.
You think the medicine is causing your child's symptoms.
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