Radioimmunotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the rationale for radioimmunotherapy as a treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. To present the similarities and differences in the two radioimmunotherapies and the nursing implications in caring for patients receiving these agents.


METHODS
Published literature and review of published clinical trials.


CONCLUSIONS
Radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies bind to specific antigens and provide a means of targeting tumor cells with cytotoxic radioactivity. The infusion of radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies requires an understanding of antibody therapy, radiation therapy, and principles of time, distance, and shielding.


CONCLUSIONS
As the use of radioimmunotherapy grows, nurses must be aware of the background for, logistics of, and follow-up required for patients receiving this form of radiation treatment.
Liebenguth
Pat
P
Department of Radiation Oncology, Baptist Hospital, Pensacola, FL 32501, USA. pat.liebenguth@bhcpns.org
Vogt Temple
Susan
S
D000359:Aftercare / Q000379:methods; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D058846:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived; D018951:Antigens, CD20 / Q000276:immunology*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D008228:Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / Q000451:nursing / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D018579:Patient Selection; D018787:Radiation Oncology / Q000379:methods; D016499:Radioimmunotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D000069283:Rituximab; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D058846:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived; D018951:Antigens, CD20; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D000069283:Rituximab; C422802:ibritumomab tiuxetan; C119496:tositumomab I-131