Hodgkin Lymphoma Radiation Therapy
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Radiation Therapy for Hodgkin Lymphoma
Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) cancer experts use sophisticated, highly-targeted radiation therapy delivery systems to treat Hodgkin lymphoma.
Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy X-rays to destroy lymphoma cells or to prevent the cells from spreading. It may also be used to relieve pain or discomfort caused by an enlarged spleen or swollen lymph nodes.
The area treated with radiation therapy and the dose given is based on your specific diagnosis, including the type of tumor and extent of the disease. For Hodgkin lymphoma patients, radiation treatments are commonly given to lymph nodes in the neck, chest, underarms, abdomen, spleen, pelvis, and/or groin.
Your care team may combine radiation with other Hodgkin lymphoma treatments, like chemotherapy, to prevent the growth of new cancer cells.
Helping You Manage Radiation-Induced Side Effects
Depending on your radiation dose, site, and other factors, radiation therapy for Hodgkin lymphoma may cause certain side effects. It can lower white blood cell count, which increases the risk of infection. Other potential side effects include: fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, skin reactions, and fertility problems (from radiation to the pelvic area).
As you receive treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma, your CTCA care team will work with you to manage these radiation-induced side effects. We’ll monitor your blood counts regularly. If needed, you’ll receive therapies to stimulate your blood cell production and prevent or treat infection.
You’ll also receive supportive therapies like nutrition therapy, naturopathic medicine, pain management, oncology rehabilitation and mind-body medicine. These therapies help keep you strong so you can continue treatment while participating in your everyday activities.
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