About Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Stage 3
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 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 for NHL (factors that a person potentially can change or control):
- 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 3 NHL. People with risk factors do not all develop NHL but may have a high chance than people who do not have the risk factor. Many people who do develop NHL do not have any risk factors. If you have concerns about your risk or symptoms, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) can cause a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on the specific type and stage of the cancer. Here are common of NHL:
- Painless but swollen lymph nodes
- Abdominal pain or abdominal bloating
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath/trouble breathing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling full quickly
- Frequent or severe infections
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Unexplained fever
- Drenching night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Enlargement of the spleen
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 stage 3, 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 3 NHL is defined as:
- Lymphoma in groups of lymph nodes on both sides of diaphragm (above and below the diaphragm)
- Lymphoma in lymph nodes above the diaphragm and in the spleen
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 non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) stage 3 are to destroy cancer cells, reduce symptoms, and restore overall health. The specific treatment options for NHL may vary depending on factors such as the type of the lymphoma, as well as the person's overall health.
Here are some treatment options for NHL stage 3:
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a primary treatment for NHL. It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Combinations of different types of chemotherapy medications may be used, and the specific drugs and dosage depend on the individual's condition and cancer stage. Chemotherapy can be given orally or through intravenous infusion.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. It uses substances that stimulate the immune system or antibodies that specifically target cancer cells. Immunotherapy can help enhance the body's natural defenses against NHL.
- Targeted cell therapies: Targeted cell therapies are a newer form of treatment for NHL that specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Targeted therapies disrupt a cancer cell’s function or processes needed to divide, multiply, grow, or spread.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy for NHL treatment. The radiation is directed at specific areas where the lymphoma is located or has spread.
- Stem cell transplantation: This procedure may be recommended for some people with NHL. It involves replacing damaged or diseased stem cells (the immature cells that normally become red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) with healthy stem cells.
- Antibiotic treatment: In some cases of a type of NHL called mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, which is associated with H. pylori infection, treatment with antibiotics may be recommended as a first-line therapy.
- Supportive treatments: Additional medications or therapies may be used as part of the treatment plan. Examples include medications to help reduce nausea or vomiting or to help reduce the risk of infections.
It's important to note that treatment plans are individualized based on each person's specific condition and needs. Often, a combination of treatments is recommended to achieve the best outcomes in terms of destroying cancer cells and improving overall health. Ongoing research continues to contribute to better treatment strategies and improved survival rates for this condition.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.