An Overview of Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of lymphoma in which the cancer starts in lymphocytes, a particular type of white blood cell. The patient has multinucleated Reed-Sternberg cells (RS cells) in their lymph nodes.
Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include painless swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin, fever and fatigue, drenching night sweats, unexpected weight loss, and itchy skin. Classic Hodgkin lymphoma and nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma are the two main forms of the disease.
Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma – It accounts for more than 90% of cases of Hodgkin lymphoma. The cancer cells are named Reed-Sternberg cells. Classic Hodgkin’s lymphoma has the following subtypes:
- Nodular sclerosis Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Mixed cellularity Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Lymphocyte-depleted Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Lymphocyte-rich Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma – Approximately 5% of lymphoma cases are of nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma. The cancer cells are large cells resembling popcorn, variations of Reed-Sternberg cells. These cells may also be referred to as lymphocytic and histiocytic cells. Typically, lymph nodes in the neck and under the arms are where this cancer begins. It is more common in men than in women, and it can affect anyone at any age. Compared to the traditional forms, this type of lymphoma typically grows more slowly and is treated differently.
Diagnosis of Hodgkin Lymphoma
Firstly, your healthcare provider will inquire about your symptoms and your medical background to determine whether you have Hodgkin lymphoma or not. This will entail looking for any anomalies or indications of illness, such as lumps. Apart from that certain tests will be performed such as:
- Complete blood count.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) test.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test.
- Blood tests to rule out other medical conditions.
- Imaging tests such as CT scans and PET (positron emission tomography) scans.
- Lymph node biopsy.
Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment in India
Hodgkin’s lymphoma treatment aims to induce remission by eliminating as many lymphoma cells as possible. Your overall health, your preferences, and the type and stage of your cancer will determine which treatments are best for you. Common approaches are:
- Chemotherapy – It is the use of drugs to kill lymphoma cells.
- Radiation therapy – It is the use of a high-energy beam to kill the lymphoma cells.
- Bone marrow transplant – It is a treatment that replaces the damaged stem cells with healthy stem cells.
- Targeted therapy – It is the use of drugs that can specifically target the cancer cells without harming the healthy cells.
- Immunotherapy – The immune system that fights disease may not be able to combat your cancer because the cancer cells make proteins that help them evade the immune system cells. Immunotherapy functions by obstructing that procedure.
In India, medical facilities offer a range of treatment options, including all these therapies, contributing to a comprehensive approach to managing Hodgkin lymphoma. Several factors make the Hodgkin lymphoma treatment in India appealing. India’s healthcare infrastructure is continuously improving, ensuring accessibility and quality care for patients seeking Hodgkin lymphoma treatment.
Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment Cost in India
The average Hodgkin lymphoma treatment cost in India typically starts from USD 2500, making it an attractive option for patients seeking quality healthcare at affordable prices. India has gained a reputation for medical tourism, attracting patients from around the world due to its cost-effective yet high-quality healthcare services. The combination of advanced medical facilities, experienced healthcare professionals, and competitive treatment costs positions India as a favorable destination for individuals seeking effective Hodgkin lymphoma treatment without compromising on quality.
Factors Affecting Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment Cost in India
The factors influencing the cost include:
- The stage of the disease.
- The type of treatment required.
- The choice of hospital.
- The patient’s overall health condition.
Why Is India a Good Option For Treating Hodgkin lymphoma?
India is a preferred destination for treating Hodgkin lymphoma due to a combination of factors that make it an excellent choice for patients seeking comprehensive and cost-effective healthcare. The country boasts state-of-the-art medical facilities equipped with the latest technology and staffed by highly skilled healthcare professionals. What sets India apart is its ability to offer world-class medical services at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries, making treatment more accessible for a broader range of patients. The lower cost of living in India contributes to affordable healthcare services, and the availability of generic medications further reduces treatment expenses.
How Can BMT Clinic Help in Your Treatment Search?
BMT is a reliable resource trusted by patients searching for physicians, hospitals, and specialty care. Which medical alternatives are best for you will be determined by us. Our staff will provide you with a list of reputable, licensed, and trustworthy hospitals and doctors based on your medical needs. We will also provide you with an affordable treatment plan. We also help patients with a variety of other problems, such as obtaining medical visas and travel authorization.
