Answers to your questions
This entry is made in response to two questions from readers. The first wants to know if radioimmunotherapy is indicated for marginal zone lymphoma. To my knowledge, it has not been approved for such use. However, I checked the government's clinical trial site and there is a trial testing RIT for marginal zone. Since many drugs are used for purposes other than that for which they have been approved, the best advice I have is to discuss your case with an RIT expert. If there is a trial testing its use, the experts must believe that it holds promise.
The second question comes from a reader who experienced anaphylactic shock from Rituxan, and he wants to know if any advances have been made to reduce the side effects of the drug. I am not aware of any, but I believe the best source of information would be from Rituxan's maker which is Biogen Idec (www.biogenidec.com). I would call the company directly.
Betsy
Comments
I was diagnosed with NHL in 2002 and underwent CHOP treatment followed by 3 months of Rituxan. I had a relapse 6 months later in 2003 and my oncologist decided to treat me with Zevalin on 07/04. Everything was great with the RIT treatment. My Dr. had told me that I was in complete remission. On 12/06, my oncologist told me that I had a relapse. I would like to know what are my options? Can I be treated again with zevalin?
Posted by: George | December 14, 2006 5:18 PM