Questions to Ask About Lymphoma of the Skin

It’s important to have honest, open discussions with your cancer care team. They want to answer all of your questions, no matter how minor they might seem. For instance, consider asking these questions:

When you're told you have lymphoma of the skin

• What kind of skin lymphoma do I have?
• Has my biopsy been reviewed by a pathologist who is an expert on skin lymphoma?
• How sure are you of my diagnosis?
• What is the stage (extent) of the lymphoma, and what does that mean in my case?
• Do I need any other tests before we can decide on treatment?
• Do I need to see any other types of doctors?
• If I’m concerned about the costs and insurance coverage for my diagnosis and treatment, who can help me?

When deciding on a treatment plan

• How much experience do you have treating this type of lymphoma?
• Should I get a second opinion before starting treatment? Can you suggest a doctor or cancer center?
• What are my treatment choices?
• What do you recommend and why?
• Do we need to treat the lymphoma right away?
• What is the goal of the treatment?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• How long will treatment last? What will it be like? Where will it be done?
• What are the risks or side effects of the treatments you suggest?
• How will treatment affect my daily activities?
• What is my outlook for survival?
• What are the chances of the lymphoma coming back with these treatment plans?
• What would we do if the treatment doesn’t work or if the lymphoma recurs?

During treatment

Once treatment begins, you’ll need to know what to expect and what to look for. Not all of these questions may apply to you, but getting answers to the ones that do may be helpful.

• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• Is there anything I can do to help manage side effects?
• What symptoms or side effects should I tell you about right away?
• How can I reach your office on nights, holidays, or weekends?
• Are there any limits on what I can do? 
• Can you suggest a mental health professional I can see if I start to feel overwhelmed, depressed, or distressed?

After treatment

• What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
• What symptoms should I watch for?
• How will we know if the lymphoma has come back? What would my options be if that happens?

Along with these sample questions, be sure to write down some of your own. For instance, you might want more information about recovery times so that you can plan your work or activity schedule. Or you might ask about clinical trials.

Keep in mind that doctors aren't the only ones who can give you information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, might be able to answer some of your questions. See The Doctor-Patient Relationship.