Recommendations for fertility preservation in patients with lymphomas.

PURPOSE

This guideline aims to serve as a reference for fertility specialists and other specialists working with young patients at risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) or testicular dysfunction (TD) due to treatment of Hodgkin or Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

METHODS

PubMed search of articles addressing risk of POI and TD according to different treatment protocols used in lymphoma patients. PubMed search of articles presenting different options for fertility treatment in cancer patients.

RESULTS

The risk of POI/TD depends on the protocol used with the highest risk in patients treated with haematopoietic stem cell transplantation/bone marrow transplantation (HSCT/BMT) and the lowest risk in patients treated with ABVD (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, Vincristine and Decarbazine). The different options of fertility preservation are discussed and their relevance according to treatment protocol, age of the patient and urgency to start treatment.

CONCLUSION

Fertility issues should be discussed with all women of fertile age. Fertility preservation should be offered to young women when relevant. Children should be informed together with their parents. All men should be offered semen cryopreservation regardless of protocol used. At present, there are no established methods of fertility preservation in pre-pubertal boys. This guideline offers suggestions to the most preferred methods of fertility preservation according to treatment protocol, age of the patient, and urgency to start treatment.