What are Treatment Options for Hodgkin Lymphoma During Pregnancy?

What are Treatment Options for Hodgkin Lymphoma During Pregnancy?

HODGKIN LYMPHOMA DURING THE FIRST TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY

When Hodgkin lymphoma is diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy, it does not necessarily mean that the woman will be advised to end the pregnancy. Each woman's treatment will depend on the stage of the lymphoma, how fast it is growing, and her wishes. Treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma during the first trimester of pregnancy may include the following:

• Watchful waiting when the cancer is above the diaphragm and is slow-growing. Labor may be induced and the baby delivered early so the mother can begin treatment.
• Radiation therapy when the cancer is above the diaphragm. A lead shield is used to protect the unborn baby from the radiation as much as possible.
• Chemotherapy using one or more drugs.

HODGKIN LYMPHOMA DURING THE SECOND OR THIRD TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY

When Hodgkin lymphoma is diagnosed in the second half of pregnancy, most women can delay treatment until after the baby is born. Treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma during the second or third trimester of pregnancy may include the following:

• Watchful waiting, with plans to induce labor when the unborn baby is 32 to 36 weeks old.
• Radiation therapy to relieve breathing problems caused by a large tumor in the chest.
• Combination chemotherapy using one or more drugs.
• Steroid therapy.