Post-treatment surveillance of patients with lymphoma treated with curative intent

Abstract

Hodgkin's lymphoma and aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) are common, potentially curable cancers. Despite modern therapy, many patients will relapse. A number of relapsing patients may be cured with subsequent treatment, including high-dose chemotherapy. Risk of relapse after potentially curative therapy is greatest in the first 2 years, and post-treatment surveillance should be concentrated during this time. Most patients will present with symptoms or physical findings at relapse. Physicians and patients should be aware of common symptoms associated with relapse, and laboratory and radiological testing should be used to assess such concerns. © 2003 Elsevier. Inc. All rights reserved.