To understand the diagnosis and treatment, it is important to pay attention to the main symptoms. Photo: DisclosureLymphomas are a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes, which are part of our immune system. It is important to know the main symptoms to understand diagnosis and treatment.
There are two types of lymphomas: Hodgkin’s lymphoma (accounting for 15% of cases), which spread in an orderly manner from one group of lymph nodes to another, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (accounting for 85% of cases), which spread in a disorderly manner. can start anywhere in the body. They may have several different characteristics, affecting patients of different age groups. The causes are not fully known, but factors such as genetics and immunosuppression may play a significant role.
Main symptoms include, for example, swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, as well as fever, night sweats, fatigue and unprecedented weight loss. A number of tests are required to make a diagnosis, ranging from a biopsy to blood tests and imaging procedures.
Relationship analyst Julia Graziele Ossemer Franzoi from Blumenau was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma when tested for Covid-19. On an X-ray of the lungs, which showed a white spot in the area between the lungs and the heart – the mediastinum – a node was noticed, which was later confirmed by biopsy that it was indeed lymphoma.
“Three months ago I already felt this nodule, my whole body was already itching badly, and I couldn’t sleep normally. I had no appetite and I was losing weight,” says the analyst.
François underwent chemotherapy and lost significant weight in a short time. After 12 chemotherapy sessions at the Santa Catarina de Blumenau Hospital, as part of a multidisciplinary treatment with access to psychologists, nutritionists and excellent medical support, Julia is feeling well and continues to be monitored in the hospital.
Treatment is carried out using a multifaceted and individual therapeutic approach to each patient. HSC Blumenau hematologist Dr. Delson Morilo Langaro explains that “treatment mainly involves chemotherapy, which in certain cases can be combined with radiation therapy. In recent years, new treatments such as immunotherapy have emerged and have shown significant improvements. OncoHSC and other major centers offer these advanced treatment options.”
As a physician, treating lymphoma requires special attention and a multidisciplinary team to care for patients. “A team consisting of nurses, dietitians, psychologists, physiotherapists and pharmacists complement the work of the medical team in this care, advising the patient regarding nutrition, physical activity, drug combinations, immunity, etc.,” emphasizes Dr. Langaro.
In August 2019, lawyer Camila Sisa was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. With great faith, he underwent all the treatment at the Santa Catarina de Blumenau Hospital, where he received all the necessary support.
“It was a delicate stage with many rules and disciplines. The treatment took 8 months, including 16 courses of chemotherapy. In the middle of the examination, cancer cells were no longer detected,” the lawyer reports. Although this was the worst phase of his life, it was also a period of greatest learning and compassion.
After successful treatment, it is important to conduct periodic consultations and examinations to ensure adequate recovery and to identify any changes that require evaluation.
“The purpose of this monitoring is to ensure that the patient recovers well from treatment and to identify any changes that need to be assessed. Care and early detection of any changes are essential to maintaining good health, without forgetting three very important topics: proper nutrition, weight control and regular physical activity,” warns Dr. Langaro.
Find out more about the Oncology Center of Excellence at Hospital Santa Catarina de Blumenau and follow the news on social media: Facebook | Instagram
Source: Ndmais