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Hodgkin lymphomaTrish Hughes, Macmillan Haematology CNS, ontreating young people with Hodgkin lymphomaLucy* was 19 when she wasdiagnosed with Hodgkinlymphoma. It was August andshe was due to go to university thefollowing month to study biomedicalscience. Lucy and her parents werenaturally very distressed.A diagnosis of cancer in this agegroup is the last thing people expect.Young people are often at universityor college or may even have youngfamilies, so this has a huge impacton their lives. They are often veryfrightened and it is my role to supportthem through this experience.As a key worker for young peoplelike Lucy, I provide psychologicalsupport and information for the youngperson and their parents. This includesspending time explaining the diagnosisand treatment options.Ongoing supportI kept in regular telephone contact withLucy while she was undergoing testsbefore commencing treatment. I alsocontacted her tutor to organise for herplace at university to be deferred.Lucy was given chemotherapy byhaematology clinic staff, who alsoplayed a part in providing holistic carefor Lucy. At the end of treatment Isupported Lucy with her transition backto university by organising some workexperience for her with our laboratorystaff. Lucy did this for a few monthsafter completing treatment andthoroughly enjoyed the experience.I saw Lucy in clinic recently and shehas just completed her first year ofuniversity and remains very well.SurvivorshipWhen a young person has finishedtreatment for Hodgkin lymphomathere is regular follow-up throughthe haematology department. Inthe past I have had an informalchat with patients, however I amabout to commence a holistic needsassessment clinic for people at the endof treatment, where we will discussconcerns and make a care plan.Related informationMacmillan has a booklet aboutHodgkin lymphoma. It also has abooklet written especially for youngpeople with cancer called I'm still me.You can order these for free frombe.macmillan.org.uk or call0800 500 800.* Name has been changed.The factsHodgkin lymphoma is a cancerof the lymphatic system. Around1,870 people are diagnosed withit in the UK each year.SymptomsThese can include a painlessswelling of a lymph node(lymphadenopathy) night sweats,fevers, fatigue and weight loss anditching. In some cases there is novisible swelling and a young personmay present at the GP with vaguesymptoms such as itching.Further informationTrish Hughes, MacmillanHaematology CNSNorthampton GeneralHospital NHS Trusttrish.hughes@ngh.nhs.ukReferencesLymphoma Association.Frequently asked questions.(Accessed at www.lymphomas.org.uk/information-andsupport/information-aboutlymphoma/frequently-askedquestions#What%20is%20Hodgkin%20lymphoma).Improving supportive andpalliative care for adults withcancer. 2004 London, NICE.Improving outcomes in childrenand young people with cancer.2005. London, NICE.DiagnosisA lymph node biopsy is neededto confirm the diagnosis. Otherstaging tests include a CT scan ora PET scan, a bone marrow testand blood tests.TreatmentDepending on the stage of thelymphoma, treatment is usuallychemotherapy. If the lymphomais localised to one group of lymphnodes radiotherapy can be given.www.macmillan.org.uk/macvoice 27