Hodgkin Lymphoma Recurrence

If Hodgkin lymphoma comes back after a period of remission, this is known as a recurrence. Sometimes, the terms “relapse” and “induction failure” are used to indicate the type of recurrence a patient is experiencing. A relapse is a recurrence that happens after a patient achieves remission, while an induction failure is a situation in which an initial course of treatment does not trigger remission.

In many cases, patients who experience a Hodgkin lymphoma recurrence are able to achieve remission after a second course of treatment. The exact types of treatment that will be recommended for a recurrence can depend on a number of different factors, including:

• What treatments were previously given and the results they produced
• How much time has passed since the initial round of treatment
• The stage of the recurrent cancer
• The patient’s preferences and general health

To increase the likelihood of detecting a recurrence early, most lymphoma survivors are scheduled for regular follow-up testing. This can include routine CT scans, X-rays and/or blood tests. These tests are usually completed every few months at first, then at longer intervals after several years have passed.

Patients who had Hodgkin lymphoma and are currently in remission can turn to Moffitt Cancer Center for comprehensive preventive care, surveillance and, should a recurrence happen, individualized treatment. We have helped numerous patients achieve positive outcomes following a recurrence, while also improving their quality of life.

Referrals are not required to discuss a Hodgkin lymphoma recurrence with Moffitt’s oncologists. To request an appointment, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.