Non-Hodgkins lymphoma?
Department of Medical Oncology,
Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre,
Delhi
Q: In 1998 I was diagnosed to have Hodgkin's lymphoma and was treated (6 cycles of chemotherapy CHOP & 20 mantle radiations). I was under observation till Oct. 2001. During one of the periodic visits in Jan 2001, X-ray showed a black mark in the right lung field which was neglected by the doctor. Again in Aug. 2001, the X-ray was repeated and it again showed the same signs and a CT scan was done which revealed a thin layer of sheet forming. The previous slide & samples were collected from the hospital, (including broncoscopy slides) and sent for test along with the previous blocks and slides and it confirmed Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Now I am under homeopathic treatment. The latest CT scan was done in Sep. 2002 which shows a slight enlargement of the layer in the right lung with no lymph nodes and no masses. Can I continue with this or is there any other treatment (system of medicine)?
A:The right lung shadow should be confirmed for lymphoma by FNAC or bronchoscopy. If it is positive then definitive treatment can be given. It could also be a radiation induced change so it is better to confirm before the initiation of treatment.