Running head: Treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma 1

Zevalin/Bexxar for the Treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma 2

Abstract

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer that attacks the cells of our immune system. It is a cancer that begins in our lymphatic system involving the B and/or T cells. Depending on the type of non-Hodgkin ‘s lymphoma, that is present in the body, will determine the method of treatment used. Monoclonal antibodies, Zevalin and Bexxar, are used to treat Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma by attaching radioactive molecules to them during radioimmunothearapy treatment.

Keywords: non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, monoclonal antibodies, Zevalin, Bexxar

Treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma 3

Zevalin/Bexxar for the Treatment of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer involving the lymph tissues, which are found in our lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs of our body’s immune system. White blood cells (B cell or B lymphocyte) help prevent infections in the human body and are where most lymphomas will begin. “Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is actually a complex group of about 50 different cancers and the 13 most common types account for 88 percent of all cases in the United States (MSKCC, 2014). The cause of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, for most individuals is unknown, but seems to be present in persons with weakened immune systems. Adults are more often affected with this disease (over 60 years), with men contracted it more than women. “Estimated new cases of 70,800 and deaths of 18,990 will occur from non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the United States in 2014” (NCI, 2014).

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is often diagnosed within patients who have enlarged lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.