Lymphoma for GPs across the cancer continuum

Abstract

Lymphomas are a diverse and relatively common cancer type in the UK. Early diagnosis of lymphoma is vital for improving patient outcomes. The majority of patients diagnosed with lymphoma have a life expectancy of more than 5 years. Lymphoma treatments can have long-term health consequences, and patients with a history of lymphoma have a higher risk of subsequently developing other cancers. More robust evidence for the early diagnosis of lymphoma in primary care has been published in recent years, and the classification of lymphoma has recently been updated by the World Health Organisation. This article focuses on the diagnosis of lymphoma in adolescents and adults and the on-going care needs of patients who are being treated for lymphoma or have survived a diagnosis of lymphoma. Further information about lymphoma and other cancers in children can be found in the InnovAiT article by Dr Jennifer Kelly published in 2017.