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For lymphoma patients, recurrence is a common concern. Recurrent cancer is cancer that has reappeared, either in the organ or tissue that was originally affected or in a new location in the body. Cancer is named for the place where it originates, so a lymphoma that appears in another part of the body is still referred to as a lymphoma. In general, a recurrence most likely develops within the first two to three years after treatment. Some cancers, however, may not reappear until years later.

At Moffitt Cancer Center, our lymphoma team in the Malignant Hematology Program regularly monitors the lymphoma patients under our care for recurrence through the use of a variety of regularly scheduled radiology tests, including:

  • CT scans
  • MRIs
  • Mammograms
  • Bone scans

Other cancers may be tracked through blood tests that measure "tumor markers" in the blood, bone marrow biopsies and routine blood work. It is important for patients to remain diligent in their follow-up care, even after a period of remission. If there is a recurrence of lymphoma, catching it early usually means there will be more treatment options available.

Moffitt’s researchers are working continually to develop new and more helpful techniques for detecting lymphomas of all types, as well as new strategies for treating and preventing the recurrence of the condition. Due, in part, to our robust clinical trials program, we have been designated by the National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only cancer center based in Florida to have received this distinction. Through clinical trials and other efforts, we are helping to improve lymphoma patients’ outcomes and quality of life.

For more information on lymphoma recurrence, contact Moffitt Cancer Center by calling 1-888-663-3488 or by filling out our online form. No referral is required.