Aftercare

The most important goal of aftercare in Hodgkin lymphoma patients is to detect recurrences as early as possible. The earlier a relapse is treated, the better is the prognosis for the patient to be cured. Besides, follow-up examinations also aim to identify treatment-related long-term consequences. Apart from that, the physician conducting the follow-up examinations should also give advice concerning the patient’s future planning (family, job etc.) in view of the malignant disease he has overcome.

Follow-up examinations are recommended to be conducted all life long. The examinations are performed after three, six and twelve months in the first year, every six months in the second, third and fourth year and from then on once a year.

Every follow-up examination consists of a detailed interview that explores possible symptoms and a systematic physical examination. Other examinations may vary and are performed if indicated. During the first years after treatment, they usually include laboratory tests of the blood, an X ray of the lung and an ultrasound examination of the abdomen. Besides, regular examinations to detect treatment-related long-term consequences should be conducted (such as a thyroid hormone test, an ECG and a pulmonary function test).

Due to the increased risk to come down with secondary malignancies, Hodgkin lymphoma patients who were successfully cured by chemo- and radiotherapy should always take part in cancer prevention programs.