Malignant Lymphomas Overview

Study Notes

Malignant Lymphomas: Epidemiology

Hodgkin’s lymphoma accounts for 14% of all lymphomas
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma represents 4% of all cancer diagnoses
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma accounts for 4% of cancer-related deaths

Malignant Lymphomas: Pathophysiology

A single progenitor cell within a lymph node transforms into a solid tumor
The tumor spreads to other lymphatic tissues and the spleen
The disease can affect major organs

Malignant Lymphomas: Clinical Manifestations

Painless swelling of lymph nodes
Low-grade fevers
Profuse night sweats
Unexplained weight loss

Malignant Lymphomas: Medical Management

Treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical removal of tumor, and stem cell transplant

Malignant Lymphomas: Surgical Management

Surgical removal of solid tumors
Splenectomy (removal of the spleen)

Malignant Lymphomas: Nursing Management: Diagnoses

Risk for infection
Activity intolerance
Risk for ineffective coping

Malignant Lymphomas: Nursing Interventions: Assessments

Monitor vital signs
Assess pain levels
Evaluate neurological status
Check for enlarged lymph nodes
Inspect skin for changes
Review laboratory test results
Assess lower extremities for swelling
Assess activity tolerance

Malignant Lymphomas: Nursing Interventions: Actions

Administer blood products as ordered
Administer medications as prescribed
Administer intravenous fluids as ordered
Manage symptoms
Obtain laboratory tests
Provide emotional support to the patient and their family

Malignant Lymphomas: Nursing Interventions: Teaching

Educate the patient about the disease process
Emphasize the risk of infection
Advise on maintaining treatment schedules
Encourage frequent rest periods
Provide guidance on dietary intake
Explain the clinical manifestations of complications
Discuss the potential for sterility

Epidemiology

Hodgkin's lymphoma accounts for 14% of all lymphomas
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma accounts for 4% of all cancers and 4% of cancer-related deaths

Pathophysiology

A single progenitor cell in a lymph node develops into a solid tumor
This tumor spreads to other lymph tissue and the spleen
It can affect other major organs

Clinical Manifestations

Typically presents with painless swelling of lymph nodes
Patients may experience low-grade fevers, drenching night sweats, and unexplained weight loss

Medical Management

Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation, surgical removal of the tumor, and stem cell transplantation

Surgical Management

Surgical removal of the solid tumor may be necessary
Splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may be performed

Nursing Management

Key nursing diagnoses include risk for infection, activity intolerance, and risk for ineffective coping

Nursing Interventions - Assessments

Regularly monitor vital signs
Assess pain levels
Evaluate neurological status
Inspect for enlarged lymph nodes, skin changes, and any lower extremity abnormalities
Obtain laboratory tests as ordered

Nursing Interventions - Actions

Administer blood products, medications, and intravenous fluids as prescribed
Provide symptom management interventions
Obtain laboratory tests as necessary
Offer emotional support to patients and their families

Nursing Interventions - Teaching

Educate patients about the disease process and associated risks, including risk of infection
Emphasize importance of adhering to treatment schedules
Encourage frequent rest periods and a balanced dietary intake
Explain potential complications and clinical manifestations
Address potential for sterility from treatment

Description

This quiz covers various aspects of malignant lymphomas, including their epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and medical and surgical management. Gain insights into the diagnosis and nursing management of these diseases as well. Test your knowledge on this important topic in oncology.