Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. It is caused by abnormal growth of white blood cells called lymphocytes. While lymphoma is not considered a lifelong disease, it can become a chronic condition if it is not treated properly.
In some cases, lymphoma can be cured with treatment. Depending on the type of lymphoma, treatment can involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Many people who receive treatment for lymphoma are able to achieve full remission, meaning that all signs and symptoms of the cancer have disappeared.
However, even in those cases, there is still a risk of the cancer recurring. This is why it is important to follow up with your doctor for regular checkups and tests even after treatment has been completed.
For some people, lymphoma can become a chronic condition. This means that it can come back after treatment, or it may never go away completely. In these cases, the goal of treatment is to keep the lymphoma under control and to reduce the risk of symptoms and complications. Treatment may involve medications, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
In conclusion, lymphoma is not a lifelong disease, but it may become a chronic condition if not treated properly. It is important to receive regular checkups and follow-up care after treatment to monitor for recurrence or progression of the disease.