Treating Cutaneous Lymphoma
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PART 2:
TREATING CUTANEOUS LYMPHOMA
Before you start treatment, it’s important to
get informed
.
The more knowledge you have about what to expect, the more comfortable
you will be as you receive treatment. Armed with information, you will
be able to better determine, with your physician, treatment team and
family members, that all the options have been weighed and assessed
accordingly. Know the full extent of what is available to you before making
any decisions. While there is no one perfect pill to make things disappear,
a combination of treatments, medications and other approaches – along
with a heavy dose of patience – will be your personal remedy. Take into
consideration your own capabilities, lifestyle and work demands and other
daily details before deciding on a treatment course.
Following is information that can be helpful in preparing yourself for
specific treatment options:
Preparing the Skin
For most topical treatments, patients may need to clean and prepare
their skin. Patients find better penetration through the skin if their skin
is well-moisturized beforehand. Bathing or taking a shower so the skin is
well-hydrated before applying medication is a good idea. Many patients
associate dry skin with their disease; moisturizers work better if the skin is
soaked first and then sealed with emollient.
Preparing for PUVA
For patients getting PUVA (psoralen medication +UVA light) treatment,
eye care is essential. There exists a theoretical, though minimal, risk of
Chapter 6
What You Should Know
Before Starting Treatment
