About Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Stage 2
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma stage 2 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 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 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 2 NHL. People with risk factors do not all develop NHL but may have a higher chance than people who do not have the risk factor. Many people who develop NHL do not have known risk factors. 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 2 non-Hodgkin lymphoma include:
- Painless swelling in the lymph nodes, typically in the armpit, neck, or groin
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Abdominal pain
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the specific subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is recommended to speak with your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
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 2 NHL is defined as:
- Lymphoma is in two or more groups of lymph nodes on the same side of the diaphragm (either above or below the diaphragm)
- Lymphoma is in a group of lymph nodes and in one area of a nearby organ.
It's important to note that these are general procedures used in diagnosing and staging non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The specific tests performed may vary based on individual factors and healthcare provider recommendations. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for stage 2 non-Hodgkin lymphoma are to eliminate or control the cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. The recommended treatments for stage 2 NHL may include:
- Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often used for indolent, contiguous stage 2 NHL.
- Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be used in combination with monoclonal antibody therapy or alone.
- Monoclonal antibody therapy: This therapy uses antibodies to target specific proteins on cancer cells, helping the immune system to recognize and destroy them. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy or alone.
- Targeted therapy: Depending on the type of NHL, targeted therapies may be recommended. Target therapy disrupts a cancer cell’s function or process needed to multiply, grow, or spread.
- Watchful waiting: In some cases, when patients do not have signs or symptoms, a "watch and wait" approach may be taken, where treatment is delayed until the disease progresses.
The specific treatment plan will depend on various factors including the type of NHL, overall health, and individual preferences. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medication types, therapies, and procedures.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional about specific medication dosing and potential side effects.