Hodgkin's Disease Treatment

Some of the treatment options for people with Hodgkin's disease may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or one of several treatment options being tested in clinical trials. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the most common treatments. Once treatment is complete, it's important to receive regular follow-up care.

An Overview of Hodgkin's Disease Treatment

There are several different treatment options available for Hodgkin's disease (also known as Hodgkin's lymphoma). Hodgkin's disease treatment depends on many factors, including:
 
  • Which type of Hodgkin's disease you have (for example, follicular lymphoma)
  • The stage of your cancer (where the lymphoma is found)
  • The size of the enlarged lymph nodes
  • Which symptoms of Hodgkin's disease are present
  • Your age
  • Whether you have other health problems.
     
Your doctor can describe your treatment options and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate treatment for Hodgkin's disease is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.
 

Remembering to Ask Questions

Many people with Hodgkin's disease want to take an active role in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all you can about Hodgkin's disease and your treatment choices. However, shock and stress that often accompany a Hodgkin's disease diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything you want to ask the doctor. It often helps to make a list of questions before you visit your doctor
 
(Click Hodgkin's Questions for a list of possible questions to ask during staging and treatment).
 
(Hodgkin's Disease Treatment Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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