Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Immunotherapy / Targeted Drug Therapy
Learn More About Immunotherapy / Targeted Drug Therapy for NHL: Chat with Us | Email Us
Immunotherapy / Targeted Drug Therapy for NHL
Your non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) team at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) uses immunotherapies and/or targeted drug therapies to block the growth and spread of the disease and prevent recurrence.
Unlike standard chemotherapy which affects all cells in the body, these therapies work to directly target cancer cells. This approach helps to avoid damage to healthy cells and, in turn, minimize side effects.
Immunotherapy (also called biological therapy and biotherapy) uses the body’s own immune system to block the growth and spread of cancer cells by preventing the cells from dividing or directly destroying them. Targeted drug therapy is used to block the growth and spread of cancer cells by interfering with specific molecules needed for growth.
Oftentimes, immunotherapies and/or targeted drug therapies are used in combination with other NHL treatments, such as chemotherapy. Your NHL care team will work with you to develop an integrated NHL treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and personal preferences.
Helping You Maintain Your Quality of Life
Sometimes, immunotherapies and/or targeted drug therapies for NHL cause side effects that can interfere with your ability to participate in activities you enjoy. For example, you may experience a reduction in blood counts, which can lead to fatigue or risk of infection. Other potential side effects of immunotherapy may include: fever, chills, headache, rash, nausea, and shortness of breath.
Throughout your NHL treatment, your CTCA care team will provide supportive therapies, including nutrition therapy, naturopathic medicine, pain management, mind-body medicine, oncology rehabilitation, and spiritual support. These therapies can help reduce treatment-related side effects and keep you strong in body, mind and spirit.
Next Topic: Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for NHL
