About Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Stage 1
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma develops when a genetic mutation (change) causes lymphocytes to continuously multiply abnormally, forming tumors. The exact cause of the mutations leading to non-Hodgkin lymphoma is unknown. There are several factors that can increase a person's risk of developing this condition.
Non-modifiable risk factors (factors that a person cannot change or control) for NHL stage 1 include:
- Age: Most people diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are 65 years or older.
- Sex Assigned at Birth: Being male is associated with a higher risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Autoimmune conditions: Some autoimmune conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are associated with a higher risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Modifiable risk factors (factors that a person potentially can change or control) for NHL stage 1 include:
- Exposure to radiation: Exposure to radiation, such as during cancer treatment or from X-rays or other sources, can increase the risk.
- Having a weakened immune system: Having a weakened immune system, which can occur due to certain medical conditions or medications, can increase the risk.
- Viral and bacterial infections: Certain viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), and human herpesvirus 8, can increase the risk. Bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori have also been linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Obesity or overweight: While the link between obesity and non-Hodgkin lymphoma is still being researched, maintaining a moderate weight is recommended by the American Cancer Society to reduce the risk of multiple types of cancer.
It's important to note that these risk factors are for development of NHL in general, not specifically stage 1 NHL. Having risk factors do not guarantee the development of NHL, but may increase the likelihood. If you have concerns about your risk or symptoms, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Common symptoms of stage 1 non-Hodgkin lymphoma include:
- Painless swelling in the lymph nodes, typically in the armpit, neck, or groin
- Swollen lymph nodes that feel soft or rubbery to the touch
- Swollen lymph nodes that move when touched
- Fatigue
- Unexplained fever
- Drenching night sweats
It's important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the lymphoma. If you notice any symptoms, it's crucial to speak with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose non-Hodgkin lymphoma, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: The healthcare professional will ask about symptoms, medical history, medications, and family medical history.
- Physical exam: During a physical exam, the doctor looks for swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, and underarms, and checks for swelling in the spleen and liver. This helps provide a baseline for your diagnosis.
- Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) is performed to check the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. It also measures the amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. Other blood tests may check for general health of the kidneys and liver or for signs of inflammation or infection.
- Biopsy: This involves taking a sample of cells from a lymph node or tumor using a small needle. A pathologist then examines this sample under a microscope to check for signs of the lymphoma. Additional tests may be performed on the tissue sample to look for signs of cancer cells.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or PET scans may be used to examine areas inside the body, such as the liver, spleen, and lungs. These tests help determine if there are any abnormalities or tumors.
After diagnosis of NHL, the doctor will determine the stage of NHL. The stage is based on where the lymphoma is located, if it has spread, and where it has spread. The stage helps the healthcare provider to determine a recommended treatment plan. Stage 1 NHL is defined as either:
- Lymphoma in one lymph node area or one lymphoid organ (bone marrow, spleen, thymus, or tonsils)
- Lymphoma in only one area of one organ outside the lymph system (this is Stage 1E).
It's important to consult with your doctor for personalized advice on diagnostic procedures and staging for your individual situation.
The goals of treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) stage 1 are to eliminate the cancer, prevent its spread, and improve overall survival. The specific treatment options for NHL Stage 1 may include:
- Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often the primary treatment for early-stage NHL. Radiation therapy targets the affected lymph nodes and helps achieve local control of the disease.
- Chemotherapy: Combination chemotherapy involves using powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be recommended in some cases of NHL Stage 1, especially if there is a high risk of recurrence or if there are certain aggressive features present.
- Watchful waiting: For some indolent NHL Stage 1 cases, a "watch and wait" approach may be recommended. This involves close monitoring of the disease without immediate treatment, as some indolent lymphomas grow slowly and may not require immediate intervention.
It's important to note that the specific treatment plan will depend on various factors such as the type of NHL, individual patient characteristics, and preferences. Health behavior changes such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress can also support overall well-being during treatment.