I have Lymphoma,

Hi, I haven't posted for a while (lost my internet!!) Anyhoo, after surviving Pagets of the breast & grade 3 IDC and intermediate grade DCIS 5 years ago I have now found out I have Lymphoma, I am to have a biopsy next week to find out if its Hodgekings or Non-Hodgekings can someone please tell me the difference also what treatments could be offered? I really don't know if I can do Chemo again. I had Cyclophosphamide, Epirubicin, Gemzar, and Paclitaxel, over 6 months. Thanks if you can help

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

What are the symptoms in your case and what group of lymph nodes are involved?

The basic difference between hodgkin's and non-hodgkin's is the type of cell involved which distinguishes one from the other.

The specific treatment is variable for both.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the main modalities of treatment depending on the biopsy reports and the final diagnosis and stage.

Do not panic now and keep your spirits high. You have faced a similar situation in the past and you should emotionally prepare yourself to handle another uphill task.

Let us know how your biopsy goes and also about the report.

Post us if you have any queries.

Regards.

[eriscatty]

Hi, thanks for your reply, the node is called the supratrochlear node, its in my left arm by my elbow (I had axhillary node clearance in the same arm in 2003). I had a scan showing the node was over 4 cm 'wide'. I get very hot especially at night and have to use the loo at least 4 times each night which disrupts my sleep, thats probably why I feel so tired all the time, I have droped about half a stone (not a bad thing!!) and my arm is megga itchy especially around the swelling and by my wrist. I never had radiotherapy last time so dont have a clue what thats going to be like. thanks again

[eriscatty]

Hi, thanks for your reply, the node is called the supratrochlear node, its in my left arm by my elbow (I had axhillary node clearance in the same arm in 2003). I had a scan showing the node was over 4 cm 'wide'. I get very hot especially at night and have to use the loo at least 4 times each night which disrupts my sleep, thats probably why I feel so tired all the time, I have droped about half a stone (not a bad thing!!) and my arm is megga itchy especially around the swelling and by my wrist. I never had radiotherapy last time so dont have a clue what thats going to be like. thanks again

[eriscatty]

Hi, thanks for your reply, the node is called the supratrochlear node, its in my left arm by my elbow (I had axhillary node clearance in the same arm in 2003). I had a scan showing the node was over 4 cm 'wide'. I get very hot especially at night and have to use the loo at least 4 times each night which disrupts my sleep, thats probably why I feel so tired all the time, I have droped about half a stone (not a bad thing!!) and my arm is megga itchy especially around the swelling and by my wrist. I never had radiotherapy last time so dont have a clue what thats going to be like. thanks again

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Other causes of lymph node enlargement need to be ruled out before a diagnosis of hodgkin's or NHL can be made.

Talk to your doctor if a course of antibiotics is required and whether a biopsy should be done in your case.

Let us know if you have any other doubts.

Regards.