Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Common complications associated with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) that should be monitored in patients include:
- Transformation to high-grade lymphoma: Patients with low-grade NHL may experience transformation to a more aggressive high-grade lymphoma, which requires careful monitoring and patient education about symptom changes NICE NG52.
- Relapse or disease progression: After treatment, patients are at risk of relapse, so regular clinical assessment is recommended, especially within the first 3 years post-treatment NICE NG52.
- Late effects of treatment: These can include secondary malignancies, organ toxicities, and other long-term complications related to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or stem cell transplantation. Patients should be provided with information on recognizing late effects and have surveillance transitioned to nurse-led or GP-led services after 3 years NICE NG52.
- Infections: Due to immunosuppression from the disease and its treatment, patients are at increased risk of infections, including opportunistic infections NICE NG52.
- Bone marrow suppression: Treatment can cause cytopenias, necessitating monitoring of blood counts NICE NG52.
- Complications related to stem cell transplantation: For those undergoing autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation, risks include graft-versus-host disease and transplant-related toxicities NICE NG52.
Monitoring should also include vigilance for symptoms such as unexplained lymphadenopathy, systemic symptoms (fever, night sweats, weight loss), and new or worsening symptoms that may indicate relapse or complications NICE CKS.