Watchful waiting (surveillance) for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL): Overview
Watchful waiting (surveillance) is a period in the treatment of some types of NHL in which you are not having treatment. It does not mean that your doctors are giving up or refusing to give you treatment.
Why is watchful waiting (surveillance) for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) done?
Watchful waiting may be an option for you if:
- Your lymphoma is slow-growing (indolent or low-grade).
- Your lymphoma may be a kind that does not respond well to chemotherapy or radiation therapy in its current state.
- You are living comfortably and do not have significant symptoms from your lymphoma.
How well does watchful waiting (surveillance) for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) work?
Watchful waiting is often as effective as having treatment for some types of NHL. Some people with slow-growing NHL may live a long time without symptoms.
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