A lymphoma diagnosis can feel life-changing, but there has never been more progress, better support or hope for the future.

From proven treatments to groundbreaking research, HealthPartners Cancer Care is with you every step of the way. We provide award-winning care for adults of all ages, with cancer clinical trials offered as a standard part of treatment.

There are many different types of lymphoma. Lymphoma is typically diagnosed with a biopsy, a procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. The two main categories are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but each have multiple subtypes. By identifying the exact type you have and how advanced it is, we can determine the most effective treatment plan.

We’ll personalize your lymphoma treatment plan based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as what matters most to you. Drawing on extensive experience and the latest approaches in care, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Chemotherapy uses strong medications that travel through the bloodstream to kill or slow the growth of fast-growing cells, including cancer cells. It’s one of the most frequently used treatments for both Hodgkin and aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (as well as other blood cancers like leukemia), and is often combined with other therapies, such as immunotherapy.

Immunotherapy strengthens your immune system’s ability to find and destroy lymphoma cells. Some types use laboratory engineered antibodies to target cancer cells. Other types, such as CAR T-cell therapy, involve modifying a patient’s immune cells to better recognize and attack the lymphoma. Immunotherapy may be used alongside other treatments like chemotherapy, or when lymphoma returns or doesn’t respond to initial therapy.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells in specific areas of the body. It’s often used for early-stage lymphoma or to treat symptoms in a particular location. Radiation is sometimes combined with chemotherapy or other treatments, depending on the type and stage of lymphoma.

A stem cell (bone marrow) transplant replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, often after high-dose chemotherapy. This approach may be used for certain aggressive or relapsed lymphomas, or when other treatments have not been effective.

Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, how quickly it is growing and your overall health. Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the most treatable cancers, and many people can be cured with long-term remission, both when it’s found in the early stages and even when it is found in more advanced stages.

Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma is always evolving, and our doctors and researchers continue to find ways to improve treatment at every stage. We’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs. Our care is grounded in the latest research and advancements, with a focus on treating the lymphoma while supporting your overall well-being.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not a single disease, but a group of many types of lymphoma that share certain characteristics. Treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma depends heavily on the specific features of the cancer, including how fast it grows.

Some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are aggressive, meaning they grow and spread quickly. Aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphomas almost always need treatment soon after diagnosis. Other types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are indolent, meaning they are slow-growing and may not cause symptoms right away. Indolent non-Hodgkin lymphomas don’t always need immediate treatment.

For early-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma, treatment can depend on the type of lymphoma:

• Aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma – These types are typically treated with chemoimmunotherapy, which is a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. We may also use radiation therapy to target specific areas.
• Indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma – When lymphoma is slow-growing, we may recommend starting with watchful waiting. If treatment is needed, options may include localized radiation, immunotherapy or chemoimmunotherapy.

For more advanced non-Hodgkin lymphoma, treatment continues to depend on the type and how the disease behaves.

• Aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma – Late-stage aggressive lymphoma is usually treated with chemoimmunotherapy. Depending on your needs, we may follow this with additional treatments to keep the cancer in remission.
• Indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma – Treatment depends on whether you have symptoms, and may include watchful waiting, immunotherapy, chemoimmunotherapy or a combination of therapies.

When you’re facing lymphoma, having the right support matters. At HealthPartners Cancer Care, we’re here to support you every step of the way with compassionate guidance, personalized treatment and access to advanced therapies and cancer clinical trials – all close to home.