Monoclonal antibody therapy for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Monoclonal antibodies are drugs that can ‘recognise’ and find specific cells in the body. These drugs can be designed to find a particular type of cancer cell in the body. The monoclonal antibodies attach themselves to the cancer cells and destroy them.

There are different types of monoclonal antibody treatment. They can be used alone, with radiotherapy or with chemotherapy. A monoclonal antibody treatment is available for certain types of lymphoma. The treatment may be used as part of initial treatment or if the disease recurs.

In non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, monoclonal antibody treatment can be given in different ways. You may have it on its own, by weekly infusion into a vein. It is also sometimes given along with chemotherapy.

Some people have an allergic reaction to monoclonal antibodies, so the first dose is given slowly over a number of hours. You may be given some other drugs before treatment begins to make these side effects less likely. Some people complain of a flu-like reaction and feeling very tired following treatment. These side effects usually go away when treatment ends or soon after. Ask your doctor or nurse to explain this treatment to you in more detail.