Follicular Lymphoma
Follicular lymphoma is a type of Slow-Growing Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer derived from the cell type that makes up the lymphatic system—the same system that protects us from infection.
Follicular lymphoma is a type of Slow-Growing Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer derived from the cell type that makes up the lymphatic system—the same system that protects us from infection.
This type of cancer accounts for 20 percent of all Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnoses in the United States. In other terms, it is the most common type of indolent (slow-growing) Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Follicular Lymphoma
Understanding Follicular Lymphoma Follicular lymphoma is caused by a proliferation of malignant B-cells (types of white blood cells). Because it is slow-growing, it can often go undetected for years, yet it is one of the most common types of blood cancers. It is also complicated due to the different forms and stages of the disease.
Though follicular lymphoma is incurable, with newer treatments it is often managed as a chronic disease. Because follicular lymphoma is slow-growing, treatment options can vary. Some individuals may only require observation or watchful waiting, while others may need aggressive treatment. One of the most promising treatment options is immunotherapy.
Symptoms of Follicular Lymphoma
Symptoms of Follicular Lymphoma Like many cancers, the symptoms of follicular lymphoma are non-specific and can be hard to detect. As the cancer progresses, symptoms tend to become more apparent, including ongoing swollen lymph nodes. Other symptoms can include fever, night sweats, feeling tired, and a decrease in appetite.
Diagnosis of Follicular Lymphoma The initial diagnosis of follicular lymphoma is an accurate physical exam and comprehensive medical history. Further tests may include a CBC (complete blood count) and a biopsy of any areas that appear to be swollen with lymph nodes. In some cases, PET (positron emission tomography) scans may be used to further confirm the diagnosis.
Staging of Follicular Lymphoma The staging of follicular lymphoma is determined by the size of lymph nodes and how advanced the disease is. Stage I is generally limited to one lymph node area or organ, while stage IV is more advanced and can involve multiple organs or bone marrow.
Treatment Options for Follicular Lymphoma Depending on the individual, the treatment plan can vary. Depending on the stage of the disease, treatments range from watchful waiting to aggressive chemotherapy, - radiation, or immunotherapy. For those with slower-progressing follicular lymphoma, newer treatments such as immunotherapy may provide some relief and even offer the possibility of a cure.
Watchful Waiting Watchful waiting (or active monitoring) is the period during which the patient and physician monitor any progression of the disease with periodic tests. This may be the most appropriate option for those who are in the early stages and have no obvious symptom.
Full Course of Treatment For those with more advanced disease, aggressive chemotherapy, radiation, monoclonal antibody therapy, and immunotherapy are all possible treatment options. The goal of treatment in this case is to eradicate the tumor, while minimizing the side effects.
Immunotherapy Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that stimulates the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells. This type of treatment has been found to be effective for some individuals with follicular lymphoma and is increasingly being used in place of aggressive chemotherapy and radiation.
