Lymphoma Care in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, an important part of your immune system. In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, lymphoma is one of the more common blood cancers seen at major health systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health.

There are two main types of lymphoma:

  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) – the most common type
  • Hodgkin lymphoma – less common, but often very treatable

These two types look different under a microscope and are treated differently, even though they affect the same system.

Lymphoma can occur at any age, including in children, but it is more common in adults and older adults. If you live in the Greater Grand Rapids area and notice persistent symptoms, it’s important to talk with your primary care provider or a local cancer specialist.

The Lymphatic System and Lymphoma

The lymphatic system is part of your immune system and helps protect your body from infection and disease. It includes:

  • Lymph nodes (glands)
  • Lymph vessels
  • Bone marrow
  • Spleen
  • Thymus gland
  • Tonsils

Lymph vessels carry a clear fluid called lymph, which contains white blood cells called lymphocytes. These cells are made in the bone marrow and travel through the lymphatic system to help fight infection.

Lymph nodes are found throughout the body, including:

  • Neck
  • Armpits
  • Chest
  • Abdomen
  • Groin

As lymph fluid passes through the lymph nodes, foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells are filtered out and attacked by lymphocytes.

What Happens in Lymphoma?

In lymphoma, the body makes large numbers of abnormal lymphocytes. These cells:

  • Do not work properly
  • Crowd out normal, healthy lymphocytes
  • Weaken the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infection

A buildup of these abnormal cells often causes enlarged, usually painless lymph nodes.

Because the lymphatic system runs through much of the body, lymphoma can start almost anywhere, including:

  • Lymph nodes (commonly in the neck, underarm, or groin)
  • Spleen or liver
  • Stomach or bowel
  • Skin
  • Brain and spinal cord (less common)
  • Testicles or eyes

Symptoms of Lymphoma

The most common sign of lymphoma is swollen lymph nodes, often in the:

  • Neck
  • Armpits
  • Groin

These swollen nodes are usually painless.

Some people also experience what doctors call “B symptoms”:

  • Unexplained weight loss (more than 10% of your body weight over 6 months)
  • Fever that comes and goes without a clear cause
  • Heavy night sweats (often soaking your sheets or pajamas)
  • Persistent, unexplained itching of the skin

Other possible symptoms include:

  • Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
  • Shortness of breath or cough
  • Feeling full quickly or abdominal discomfort (if the spleen or liver is enlarged)
  • Frequent infections
  • Easy bruising or bleeding (if the bone marrow is affected)

In some cases, lymphoma spreads to the bone marrow, leading to low blood counts (anemia, low white blood cells, or low platelets).

When to See a Doctor in Grand Rapids

Most people with these symptoms do not have lymphoma. Common infections, seasonal illnesses (especially during West Michigan’s long cold winters), and other conditions can cause similar symptoms.

However, you should see your doctor or a local clinic in Grand Rapids if:

  • Swollen lymph nodes last longer than 3–4 weeks
  • You have ongoing fevers, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
  • You feel unusually tired or unwell for several weeks

You can start with your primary care provider or an urgent care clinic. If needed, they may refer you to a hematologist/oncologist at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health for further evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors for Lymphoma

For most people, the exact cause of lymphoma is unknown. Because there are many different types of lymphoma, there is unlikely to be a single cause.

Known and suspected risk factors include:

  • Certain infections, such as:
    • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
    • Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)
    • Some chronic viral or bacterial infections
  • Weakened immune system, such as:
    • Organ transplant recipients on long-term immune-suppressing drugs
    • Certain inherited immune deficiencies
  • Exposure to high levels of radiation
  • Long-term exposure to certain chemicals, including some pesticides and industrial chemicals
  • Age and gender – some types of lymphoma are more common in older adults or in men

Researchers, including those collaborating with cancer centers across Michigan and the Great Lakes region, are actively studying other possible causes and risk factors.

How Lymphoma Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

If your doctor in Grand Rapids suspects lymphoma, they will begin with:

  • Medical history and physical exam – asking about your symptoms and checking for swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, and groin, as well as checking your abdomen and other areas
  • Blood tests – to look at your blood counts and organ function

If lymphoma is suspected, additional tests may include:

Biopsies

  • Lymph node biopsy

    • A small piece or the whole lymph node is removed
    • The sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist
    • This is the key test to confirm lymphoma and determine the type

  • Bone marrow biopsy

    • A small sample of bone marrow is taken from the hip bone with a needle
    • Checked under a microscope for lymphoma cells

Imaging Tests

These tests are available at major Grand Rapids hospitals and imaging centers:

  • Chest X-ray – to look for enlarged lymph nodes in the chest
  • CT scan (computed tomography) – detailed 3D images of the chest, abdomen, pelvis, or other areas
  • PET scan (positron emission tomography) – a small amount of radioactive material is injected; cancer cells show up as “hot spots” on the scan
  • Sometimes combined PET/CT scans are used to show both structure and activity of the disease

Some older tests, like gallium scans, have largely been replaced by PET/CT in modern cancer centers such as Spectrum Health and Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Waiting for Results

Test results may take several days to a week. Feeling anxious during this time is very normal. Many people in Grand Rapids find it helpful to:

  • Talk with a trusted friend or family member
  • Reach out to local support services through the Kent County Health Department, Grand Rapids Public Health, or local cancer support groups
  • Connect with national organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Staging Lymphoma

Once lymphoma is confirmed, doctors “stage” the disease to see how far it has spread. Staging helps guide treatment decisions.

The most common staging system uses Stages I–IV:

  • Stage I

    • Cancer is in one lymph node area
    • Or in one area or organ outside the lymph nodes

  • Stage II

    • Cancer is in two or more lymph node areas
    • Or in one lymph node area plus a nearby organ
    • All on the same side of the diaphragm (the muscle under the lungs)

  • Stage III

    • Cancer is in lymph node areas on both sides of the diaphragm

  • Stage IV

    • Cancer has spread widely outside the lymphatic system
    • May involve organs such as the liver, bone marrow, lungs, bones, or skin

Your oncology team in Grand Rapids will discuss your stage, type of lymphoma (Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin), and other factors such as your age and overall health when planning treatment.

Treatment Options for Lymphoma in Grand Rapids

Treatment for lymphoma in Grand Rapids is typically provided by hematology/oncology specialists at:

  • Spectrum Health Cancer Center
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health and affiliated clinics

Treatment depends on:

  • Type of lymphoma (Hodgkin vs non-Hodgkin)
  • Specific subtype
  • Stage of the disease
  • How fast the lymphoma is growing (aggressive vs slow-growing)
  • Your age, general health, and personal preferences

Some people need one main type of treatment, while others need a combination.

1. Watchful Waiting (Active Surveillance)

Some slow-growing (indolent) non-Hodgkin lymphomas may not need immediate treatment. Instead, your doctor may recommend:

  • Regular check-ups and blood tests
  • Periodic scans

Treatment is started if the lymphoma begins to cause symptoms or shows signs of progression. This approach is common and safe for selected patients.

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to kill or slow the growth of lymphoma cells. In Grand Rapids, chemotherapy is usually given:

  • As a combination of drugs
  • In cycles (periods of treatment followed by rest)
  • By IV infusion at a hospital or infusion center, or sometimes as tablets

Chemotherapy is used for both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and is often very effective. Your oncology team will explain the specific regimen recommended for you.

3. Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)

Radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used:

  • Alone for early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma or localized non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • After chemotherapy to treat remaining disease in a specific area

Radiation therapy is delivered at specialized cancer centers in Grand Rapids using precise planning to limit exposure to healthy tissues.

4. Steroids

Steroids (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) are often used along with chemotherapy to:

  • Improve treatment effectiveness
  • Reduce inflammation and swelling
  • Help control some symptoms

They are usually given as tablets or IV infusions for short periods during treatment cycles.

5. Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy

Modern lymphoma care increasingly uses targeted therapies and immunotherapies, including:

  • Monoclonal antibodies

    • A type of immunotherapy that attaches to specific proteins on lymphoma cells
    • Helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells
    • Can slow or stop cancer cell growth

  • Other targeted drugs

    • May block signals that lymphoma cells need to grow
    • Often used in combination with chemotherapy or as maintenance therapy

  • Immunotherapy (biologic therapy)

    • Helps your own immune system find and attack lymphoma cells
    • May be used for certain types of relapsed or difficult-to-treat lymphoma

These treatments are available through major cancer centers in West Michigan, sometimes as part of clinical trials.

6. Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) Transplant

A stem cell transplant allows doctors to use higher doses of chemotherapy than usual to kill lymphoma cells.

  • High-dose chemotherapy (sometimes with total body irradiation) is given to destroy cancer cells and the bone marrow
  • Then you receive an infusion (drip) of stem cells to restore your bone marrow

Types of transplants:

  • Autologous transplant – uses your own previously collected stem cells

    • Often used if lymphoma comes back or does not respond fully to first treatment

  • Allogeneic transplant – uses stem cells from a donor

    • Has more potential side effects and is not suitable for everyone

Stem cell transplant services are typically offered through larger regional centers, sometimes in collaboration with university hospitals in Michigan.

7. CAR T-Cell Therapy

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a newer form of immunotherapy and gene therapy used for some types of relapsed or refractory lymphoma:

  • Some of your T-cells (a type of immune cell) are collected
  • In a lab, they are genetically modified so they can better recognize and attack lymphoma cells
  • The modified cells are then returned to your body through an infusion

CAR T-cell therapy is highly specialized and may be available through select centers in Michigan. Your Grand Rapids oncologist can refer you if this treatment is appropriate.

8. Supportive Care

Supportive care focuses on preventing and treating symptoms and side effects, and improving quality of life. It may include:

  • Medications for pain, nausea, and other symptoms
  • Blood and platelet transfusions
  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Nutritional support and counseling
  • Physical therapy or rehabilitation services

Supportive care is an important part of lymphoma treatment at all stages.

9. Complementary and Integrative Therapies

Some people find that certain complementary therapies, used alongside medical treatment, help them feel better, such as:

  • Relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga
  • Massage therapy (with your doctor’s approval)
  • Counseling or support groups

Always discuss any herbs, supplements, or alternative treatments with your oncology team. Some may interfere with chemotherapy or other medications.

Side Effects of Lymphoma Treatment

All treatments can cause side effects, which vary depending on:

  • The drugs and doses used
  • Type and area of radiation
  • Your general health

Common side effects may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Hair loss (with certain chemotherapy drugs)
  • Increased risk of infection
  • Mouth sores
  • Changes in appetite or taste
  • Skin changes in radiated areas

Many side effects are temporary and improve after treatment ends. Some may be longer-lasting. Your Grand Rapids cancer care team will explain possible side effects before treatment and help manage them.

Emotional, Sexual, and Social Impact

Lymphoma and its treatment can affect:

  • How you feel about your body and appearance
  • Your energy and mood
  • Your relationships with partners, family, and friends
  • Your sexual desire and function
  • Your work, school, and daily activities

These changes can be very upsetting, especially during long Michigan winters when people may already feel more isolated. It is important to:

  • Talk openly with your partner or trusted loved ones
  • Ask your doctor for a referral to a counselor, social worker, or psychologist
  • Consider local support groups or online communities for people with lymphoma

Many national organizations offer resources on sexuality, intimacy, and cancer, and your Grand Rapids oncology team can help connect you with these.

Lymphoma Research and Clinical Trials

Thanks to early detection and improved treatments, survival for many people with lymphoma has improved significantly.

Ongoing research is focused on:

  • Developing more precise targeted therapies
  • Improving immunotherapies such as CAR T-cell treatment
  • Reducing side effects of treatment
  • Finding better ways to prevent and detect lymphoma early

Cancer centers in Grand Rapids often collaborate with larger research networks and may offer clinical trials. Ask your oncologist whether a clinical trial might be an option for you.

Caring for Someone with Lymphoma

Caring for a loved one with lymphoma can be emotionally and physically demanding. Caregivers in Grand Rapids may:

  • Help with appointments, medications, and daily tasks
  • Provide emotional support
  • Coordinate with family, friends, and healthcare providers

If you are a caregiver:

  • Try to accept offers of help from others
  • Take breaks and care for your own health
  • Consider joining a caregiver support group through local hospitals, churches, or community organizations

Local resources, such as the Kent County Health Department, Grand Rapids Public Health, and national cancer organizations, can help you find support.

When a Cure May Not Be Possible

If lymphoma is diagnosed at a late stage or does not respond to treatment, a cure may not be possible. In these situations, the focus shifts to palliative care, which aims to:

  • Improve quality of life
  • Control symptoms such as pain, nausea, shortness of breath, or anxiety
  • Provide emotional and spiritual support for you and your family

Palliative care services are available through major Grand Rapids health systems and home-based programs. You can receive palliative care at any stage of illness, even while still having active cancer treatment.

Local and National Resources for Grand Rapids Residents

If you or a loved one in Grand Rapids has been diagnosed with lymphoma, you are not alone. Helpful resources include:

  • Local healthcare systems

    • Spectrum Health Cancer Center
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health

  • Public health and community resources

    • Kent County Health Department
    • Grand Rapids Public Health programs
    • Local support groups and faith-based organizations

  • National organizations

    • Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
    • American Cancer Society
    • Lymphoma Research Foundation

These organizations can help you find information, support groups, transportation assistance, financial counseling, and more.

Key Points About Lymphoma in Grand Rapids, MI

  • Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system; the two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Hodgkin lymphoma is less common but often highly treatable.
  • Lymphoma can occur at any age but is more common in adults.
  • A build-up of abnormal lymphocytes causes enlarged, usually painless lymph nodes.
  • Symptoms can include swollen glands, fevers, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and itching—but many people with these symptoms have less serious conditions.
  • Diagnosis usually involves a lymph node biopsy, blood tests, and imaging such as CT or PET scans.
  • Treatment options in Grand Rapids include watchful waiting, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, CAR T-cell therapy, and supportive care.
  • All treatments have side effects, but many are temporary and can be managed with help from your care team.
  • Local hospitals and clinics in Grand Rapids, along with state and national cancer organizations, offer strong support for patients and families facing lymphoma.

If you have persistent symptoms or concerns about lymphoma, schedule an appointment with your Grand Rapids primary care provider or ask for a referral to a hematology/oncology specialist. Early evaluation and treatment can make a significant difference.