Defend Your Immune System
The lymphatic system is so close to vital organs in your body that diagnosing and treating this type of cancer requires in-depth expertise. Lymphomas are cancers that start in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. The lymphatic system consists of a network of thin tubes that drain lymph fluid from tissues throughout the body to help fight disease and infection. More than 80,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with lymphoma. There are two main types of lymphomas:
Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Also known as Hodgkin’s disease, this type of cancer starts in the lymphatic tissue and is most common in adolescents and young adults. It is considered to be one of the most curable forms of cancer.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
This form of cancer occurs when cells in the lymphatic system become abnormal. It can start almost anywhere in the body and may occur in a single lymph node, a group of lymph nodes or in another organ. It can spread to almost any part of the body including the liver, bone marrow and spleen
The Penn Medicine | Virtua Cancer Program provides specialty care – including advanced treatments and personalized support services – for those with lymphoma. You’ll receive an individualized treatment plan based on the type, stage, and grade of the lymphoma as well as your age, health and personal choices. We provide the latest surgical options for Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and advanced radiation oncology treatment in a comfortable setting. Our highly trained specialists offer the latest in immunotherapy options – such as interferon and monoclonal antibodies – for highly targeted treatments that minimize damage to healthy tissue in the body. And state-of-the-art chemotherapy medications and techniques are available at outpatient chemotherapy and infusion centers.
For a referral to a Penn Medicine | Virtua Cancer Program specialist, call 1-888-VIRTUA-3 (1-888-847-8823).