How can I manage my stage 3B Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had swollen lymph nodes in my neck, armpits, and groin for four months that keep growing. I soak through my pajamas and sheets with sweat three to four times every night, have lost 28 pounds in three months, have fevers, am exhausted all the time, and itch all over, especially after showers.

My biopsy showed Reed-Sternberg cells, and scans show lymph nodes affected above and below my diaphragm, which is stage 3B.

What exactly is Hodgkin lymphoma?
Is it cancer?
What is the difference between Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin?
What caused this?
Is it genetic?
What is my prognosis?
Can it be cured at stage 3?
What is the cure rate?
What is ABVD chemo?
What are the chemo side effects?
Will I lose my hair?
Do I need radiation, too?
How long is treatment?
What about fertility?
Can I have kids after?’
Should I freeze sperm now?
What are the long-term side effects of treatment?
Could I get a second cancer from treatment?
What is remission?
How do you know if I am cured?
What if it comes back?
Can lymphoma come back years later, and what is my life expectancy?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Sorry to know that you have been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. This is basically a cancer of the body's lymphatic system. The lymphatic system has a role in the circulation of lymph fluid in the body. It presents with swellings of the lymph nodes, just like you are experiencing, along with other common cancer symptoms such as fever, sweats, loss of appetite, weight loss, etc.

It is a treatable cancer and generally occurs due to genes or because of the EB (Epstein-Barr) virus. It is especially more common in males.

Treatment is mainly chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or even stem cell transplants. Based on the progression of your disease, the hematologist-oncologist will decide on the treatment plan.

The prognosis is good compared to other cancers of this system. You may experience side effects of the various treatment modalities. Once cancer is in remission, other body functions remain normal.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, on the other hand, occurs due to autoimmune problems and viral infections. Hodgkin lymphoma has a better prognosis than non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma spreads rapidly throughout the body and can take aggressive forms. Kindly share the reports so I can provide better clarity on your condition.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.