Malignant lymphoma: implications during the reproductive years and pregnancy

The malignant lymphomas are reviewed, and involvement of urogenital-ridge derivatives, including the reproductive organs, is summarized. Implications of therapy for pelvic lymphoma are discussed. It is shown by a retrospective analysis that Hodgkin's disease has little effect on fertility, the course of gestation, delivery or fetal wastage and that maternal death is not increased. No adverse effect of pregnancy on the symptoms or longevity of women with Hodgkin's disease can be demonstrated. Women diagnosed in pregnancy as having lymphoma should undergo therapeutic abortion so that proper staging and therapy may be given. Pregnancies over 32 to 34 weeks should be induced. Women previously treated for lymphoma may become infertile as a result of therapy. Those not infertile after therapy should avoid pregnancies since there is a potential risk of malformations and malignancies in the offspring.