Jeff Horn and Karen Campbell look at the care of patients post-diagnosis, with emphasis on the information needs of those who do not require treatment

Follicular lymphoma is the second most common sub-type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Although rarely considered curable, this indolent lymphoma typically follows a remitting and relapsing pattern, often over years. There have been many possible treatment options, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy and, until the advent of monoclonal antibody therapy, little improvement in overall survival had been achieved. This article reviews the nature of follicular lymphoma, the treatments and the consequent implications for the nursing of patients who do not require immediate treatment after diagnosis. This lack of treatment may be distressing to the person and may lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety. The nurse can support this patient group by providing information and ongoing psychosocial support.