Lymphoma & Hodgkin's disease specialists Amritsar

If you or a loved one have been told there is a problem with the lymph nodes or a diagnosis of lymphoma, you need clear information, an experienced oncology team, and compassionate care close to home. At Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Amritsar, our multidisciplinary team of hematology and oncology specialists treats a wide range of hematologic malignancies, including Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This article explains what lymphoma is, how it is diagnosed and staged, treatment options available in Amritsar and Punjab, and how to choose the right specialist. For appointments call +91 80788 80788 or book online.

Introduction

Lymphomas are cancers that arise from white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are part of the immune system. They most commonly develop in lymph nodes but can begin in the spleen, bone marrow, thymus and other organs. Lymphoma is an umbrella term that includes many subtypes; the two major categories are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Each category contains several subtypes with different biological behaviors, treatment responses and prognosis.

Globally, lymphomas account for a meaningful proportion of cancer diagnoses; they are more common in younger adults and also in older adults depending on subtype. Hodgkin lymphoma tends to present in younger adults and is often highly curable, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) includes both indolent forms that grow slowly and aggressive types that require prompt intensive treatment. In Punjab and in Amritsar, tertiary hospitals such as Livasa receive referrals for complex cases, offering diagnostics like PET-CT and bone marrow evaluation together with modern chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy and transplant services when needed.

What is lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, the network that helps the body fight infections and remove waste. The lymphatic system includes:

• Lymph nodes (neck, armpit, groin, chest, abdomen)
• Spleen and thymus
• Bone marrow
• Lymphatic vessels

Lymphocytes (B cells and T cells) are the main cells involved. When one of these cells changes and begins to grow uncontrollably, the result can be lymphoma. The abnormal cells often collect in lymph nodes producing swelling, but they can also affect organs and bone marrow, causing systemic symptoms. Pathologists distinguish lymphoma from other blood cancers, such as leukemia, by examining tissue under the microscope and using specialized tests like immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry.

Within the category of lymphoma there is substantial variation. Some lymphomas are slow-growing and may not need immediate treatment but do require monitoring. Other types are aggressive and need urgent combination chemotherapy and supportive care. The diagnosis, subtype classification, and staging determine prognosis and guide treatment planning — which is why early referral to a lymphoma specialist in Amritsar or Punjab experienced in hematologic malignancies is important.

Types of lymphoma: Hodgkin versus non-Hodgkin

Clinically and pathologically, lymphomas are divided broadly into Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed–Sternberg cells on biopsy and historically has had a high cure rate with combination chemotherapy and targeted radiation in localized disease. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a diverse group with many subtypes — including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, T-cell lymphomas and B-cell lymphomas such as Burkitt lymphoma.

Key contrasts between the major categories include:

Understanding the subtype requires tissue diagnosis and specialized lab testing. At Livasa Amritsar we use immunophenotyping, cytogenetics, and molecular tests alongside expert hematopathology review to reach accurate subtype classification.

Causes and risk factors

No single cause explains most lymphomas. Instead, a combination of factors increases risk by influencing lymphocyte growth or immune function. Recognized risk factors include:

• Age and gender patterns specific to subtype (e.g., Hodgkin often in younger adults)
• Weakened immune system due to HIV infection, immunosuppressive drugs (post-transplant), or congenital conditions
• Infections associated with lymphoma: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) linked to some Hodgkin and NHL subtypes; Helicobacter pylori associated with gastric MALT lymphoma; HTLV-1 linked to adult T-cell lymphoma
• Chemical exposures and environmental factors (some evidence linking pesticides or solvents to increased risk in occupational settings)
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome) associated with increased NHL risk
• Prior chemotherapy or radiation exposure

Many people with lymphoma have no identifiable risk factor. Genetics and the tumor microenvironment also play roles. In India and specifically in Punjab, public health surveillance shows that infections and immune status continue to be important considerations, and clinicians in Amritsar assess infectious causes as part of the diagnostic workup.

Family history alone rarely explains lymphoma risk, though certain inherited immune disorders can predispose. For patients concerned about inherited cancer syndromes, our team at Livasa Amritsar can advise on genetic counseling and testing when appropriate.

Symptoms and when to see a doctor

Lymphoma symptoms vary. Many patients first notice a painless lump in the neck, armpit or groin. Systemic or “B” symptoms — fevers, night sweats and unexplained weight loss — are classic for many lymphoma subtypes and are used in staging and prognostic scoring. Other possible symptoms include:

• Persistent swelling of lymph nodes (painless)
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained fevers or drenching night sweats
• Unintentional weight loss
• Itchy skin (pruritus) in certain Hodgkin lymphoma cases
• Shortness of breath or cough if lymph nodes in the chest are enlarged
• Abdominal pain or fullness if spleen or abdominal nodes are involved

Because many benign conditions (infections, inflammatory diseases) also cause lymph node enlargement, not every swollen node is lymphoma. However, seek evaluation by a general physician or an oncologist in Amritsar if:

• A lymph node remains enlarged for more than 2–3 weeks without improvement
• There are systemic symptoms such as night sweats, persistent fever, or unexplained weight loss
• Nodes feel hard, fixed or progressively larger
• Persistent cough, breathlessness, or severe abdominal pain accompanies swelling

Early evaluation improves diagnostic speed and lets specialists in Amritsar plan appropriate imaging and biopsy procedures. Livasa Amritsar offers prompt outpatient assessment and same-week diagnostic pathways for suspected lymph node cancer in Amritsar.

Diagnosis and staging: what to expect in Amritsar

Accurate diagnosis is a multi-step process. Key elements include a careful clinical history and physical examination, blood tests, imaging, and most importantly a tissue biopsy. At Livasa Amritsar we follow international best-practice pathways so that the lymphoma subtype and stage are defined precisely:

• Complete blood count, liver and kidney tests, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
• Imaging: high-resolution ultrasound for superficial nodes, contrast-enhanced CT scans for chest/abdomen/pelvis, and PET-CT for metabolic staging and response assessment
• Tissue diagnosis: excisional lymph node biopsy is preferred when possible; core needle biopsy used when excision is not feasible
• Bone marrow biopsy if indicated (to assess marrow involvement)
• Pathology: histology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, cytogenetics and molecular studies to subtype lymphoma

Below is a comparison of common biopsy options and their advantages, which patients in Amritsar will commonly encounter:

Staging commonly uses the Ann Arbor system with PET-CT to define the extent of disease (stage I–IV) and to identify "B" symptoms. Accurate staging done in Amritsar enables individualized treatment planning and prognosis estimation. Our hospital integrates radiology, nuclear medicine and hematopathology so that reports and treatment decisions are available fast.

Treatment options and comparisons

Treatment depends on lymphoma subtype, stage, patient age, co-existing medical conditions and patient preferences. Options often include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and in selected cases, hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Supportive care (infection prevention, growth factor support, transfusions when needed) is essential to allow safe delivery of therapy. Below is a clear comparison of common treatment approaches to help you understand differences and expected impacts.

In Amritsar and throughout Punjab, access to modern targeted agents and immunotherapies has increased. At Livasa Amritsar we provide comprehensive plans combining systemic therapy, targeted drugs and radiation where appropriate, and coordinate referral for CAR-T or allogeneic transplant to partnered centers when required.

Specialized multidisciplinary care at Livasa Amritsar

Effective lymphoma care relies on a team approach. Livasa Amritsar brings together hematologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, hematopathologists, nuclear medicine physicians, experienced oncology nursing staff, clinical pharmacists and supportive services such as nutrition, psychosocial care and rehabilitation. Our strengths include:

• Rapid diagnostic pathways for suspected lymph node cancer in Amritsar, including same-week biopsies and PET-CT scheduling
• Experienced lymphoma specialists who treat a high volume of hematologic malignancies in Punjab
• Access to modern agents (monoclonal antibodies, targeted small molecules, immune therapies) and protocols tailored to Indian patients
• Dedicated infusion units with infection control and supportive care for safe chemotherapy and immunotherapy delivery
• Coordination for advanced therapies and stem cell transplant — including referral networks and transplant preparatory services

Patients at Livasa Amritsar benefit from individualized treatment plans that consider social and financial circumstances, local follow-up needs, and work/education commitments. For those who travel from other parts of Punjab, our team helps to arrange accommodation, scheduling and follow-up plans so treatment can be delivered with minimal disruption.

If you need a second opinion or a clear explanation of pathology and staging, our lymphoma specialists in Amritsar provide evidence-based second opinion clinics and review services. To schedule, call +91 80788 80788 or book online.

Pediatric lymphoma and special populations

Lymphoma is an important childhood cancer category. Hodgkin lymphoma does occur in adolescents and older children, but many pediatric lymphomas are B-cell or T-cell non-Hodgkin subtypes such as Burkitt lymphoma and lymphoblastic lymphoma. Children require care from a pediatric oncology team experienced in delivering age-appropriate chemotherapy dosing, managing side effects, and preserving long-term health including growth, fertility and cognitive outcomes.

Key pediatric considerations include:

• Rapid diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy for aggressive subtypes
• Specialized supportive care to prevent infections and manage tumor lysis syndrome
• Fertility preservation counseling when appropriate before high-dose treatment
• Coordinated school reintegration and psychosocial support for child and family

At Livasa Amritsar, pediatric patients are managed by pediatric oncology consultants in close collaboration with hematopathology and radiology to provide child-focused care. For elderly patients or those with other health conditions, the team tailors treatments to balance effectiveness and tolerability, offering less intensive regimens or targeted approaches when appropriate.

Costs, financial counseling and access to care in Amritsar

Understandably, cost is a major concern for many families. The price of lymphoma care varies widely depending on the subtype, required tests, type and number of cycles of systemic therapy, use of targeted or immunotherapy agents, need for radiation, and whether transplant is required. In Punjab, treatment cost ranges from outpatient chemotherapy cycles to significantly higher expenses for advanced targeted therapies and stem cell transplant.

The table below provides a general comparative view of typical cost ranges patients might expect in Amritsar. These are illustrative and will vary depending on exact drugs, hospital stay, and supportive care needed.

Livasa Amritsar offers financial counseling to review treatment plans, insurance coverage and government schemes. We also assist patients in applying for patient assistance programs and access pathways for high-cost medicines where available. Our team can provide an individualized estimate after initial assessment and will discuss staging and treatment options with cost-sensitive alternatives when clinically appropriate.

Follow-up, survivorship and living with lymphoma

After initial treatment, follow-up focuses on monitoring for relapse, managing late effects of therapy, and addressing quality of life. Follow-up schedules are individualized but often include periodic clinical reviews, blood tests and imaging (PET-CT or CT scans) at defined intervals. Survivorship care also covers:

• Vaccination and infection prevention
• Fertility and endocrine assessment after therapy
• Cardiac and pulmonary monitoring for patients who received cardiotoxic drugs or chest radiation
• Mental health and rehabilitation services to address anxiety, fatigue and return-to-work planning

Partnerships with local patient support groups in Amritsar and Punjab help families access peer support and practical advice. Livasa Amritsar also coordinates rehabilitation, nutritional support and counseling services to improve long-term outcomes and quality of life after a lymphoma diagnosis.

How to choose the right lymphoma specialist in Amritsar

Choosing the right specialist can be daunting. Look for clinicians and centers with the following attributes:

• Experience in hematologic malignancies and high case volumes for lymphoma
• Access to modern diagnostics (PET-CT, immunohistochemistry, molecular testing)
• Multidisciplinary tumor board reviews for complex cases
• Clear communication about treatment goals, alternatives and side effect management
• Support services such as financial counseling, nutrition, and psychosocial care

Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Amritsar — meets these criteria with dedicated lymphoma clinics, experienced hematology oncologists, and integrated diagnostic services. If you need a second opinion or help interpreting a pathology report, our specialists are available for consultations. For an appointment call +91 80788 80788 or visit https://www.livasahospitals.com/appointment.

Disclaimer: Information in this article is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Treatment options, costs and availability can change. For tailored guidance contact Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Amritsar directly.