What Are Treatments For T-Cell Lymphoma?

T-cell Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, specifically the T-cells, which are a type of white blood cell. These cells play a crucial role in the immune system, helping to fight off infections and diseases. When T-cells become cancerous, they can multiply uncontrollably, leading to the development of T-cell lymphoma. The treatment for T-cell lymphoma can vary depending on the specific type of lymphoma, the stage of the disease, and the patient's overall health. The main treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often the first line of treatment for T-cell lymphoma. It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. The specific drugs used can vary, but may include Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone (CHOP regimen). Another commonly used regimen is Etoposide, Prednisone, Vincristine, Cyclophosphamide, and Doxorubicin (EPOCH). The choice of regimen depends on the type and stage of the lymphoma, as well as the patient's overall health.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. This treatment may be used in combination with chemotherapy, especially in cases where the lymphoma is localized to one area of the body. The specific type of radiation therapy used can vary, but may include external beam radiation therapy or intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

3. Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell transplant may be considered for patients with T-cell lymphoma who have not responded to other treatments or whose lymphoma has relapsed. This procedure involves replacing the patient's diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells, which can then grow into new bone marrow. The stem cells can be the patient's own (autologous transplant) or from a donor (allogeneic transplant).

4. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. In the case of T-cell lymphoma, immunotherapy may involve the use of drugs like Brentuximab vedotin or Alemtuzumab, which target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. Other types of immunotherapy, like checkpoint inhibitors, can help to boost the immune system's response to cancer.

5. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves the use of drugs that specifically target the changes in cancer cells that help them grow and divide. For T-cell lymphoma, targeted therapies may include drugs like Romidepsin, Belinostat, or Pralatrexate. These drugs work by blocking the action of certain proteins in cancer cells, which can help to slow or stop their growth.

6. Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are not just a last resort for treating T-cell Lymphoma. They can actually provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet approved but show promise over years of testing. The choice of a clinical trial depends on a variety of factors including the patient's age, overall health, the subtype of T-cell Lymphoma, and genetic changes in the lymphoma cells. It's important to discuss all treatment options, including goals and possible side effects, with your healthcare team to help make the best decision. 

To learn more about your T-cell Lymphoma clinical trial options, visit HealthTree's T-cell Lymphoma Clinical Trial Finder. Utilize the advanced filter option to locate trials that you are eligible to participate in. You can create a HealthTree account to favorite your top trial options so you can discuss them with your T-cell Lymphoma specialist.

Want to Learn More About T-Cell Lymphoma?

Keep reading HealthTree for T-Cell Lymphoma's 101 pages!

• What Is T-Cell Lymphoma?
• How Is T-Cell Lymphoma Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With T-Cell Lymphoma?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of T-Cell Lymphoma?
• How Is T-Cell Lymphoma Staged And Classified?