Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma is an advanced form of the cancer, but it can be treated and cured. Treatment options for Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma depend on the specific type of lymphoma and the individual patient. Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually the first line of treatment for Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma. Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles, which means that the patient will receive a certain number of treatments over a period of time, followed by a break to allow the body to recover. Common chemotherapy drugs used to treat Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma include doxorubicin, vinblastine, bleomycin, and etoposide.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It is usually used in combination with chemotherapy to treat Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma. Radiation therapy may be used to target specific areas of the body that have been affected by the cancer, or it may be used to treat the entire body.
Stem Cell Transplant
A stem cell transplant is a type of treatment that uses healthy stem cells to replace damaged cells in the body. This type of treatment may be used for Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma if the cancer has not responded to other treatments. The stem cells may be taken from the patient or from a donor.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells. This type of treatment may be used in combination with other treatments for Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma. Common targeted therapies used to treat this type of cancer include brentuximab vedotin and nivolumab.
The outlook for patients with Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma varies depending on the individual’s age, overall health, and the type of treatment they receive. With treatment, many patients are able to achieve remission and, in some cases, even a cure.