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- Dave Coulier, beloved for his role as Uncle Joey on Full House, has shared his diagnosis of stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- This type of lymphoma originates in the lymphatic system, a crucial component of our immune system.
- Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes in areas like the neck, armpits, or groin, as well as chest pain or fever.
- Treatment options typically involve chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted drug therapies.
At the age of 65, Full House star Dave Coulier has been diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The actor’s diagnosis came after he experienced a respiratory infection that led to swollen lymph nodes, as reported by PEOPLE.
After noticing a rapid increase in the swelling, his doctor recommended a series of PET and CT scans, followed by a biopsy.
“Three days later, my doctors called me back with the news, and they said, ‘We wish we had better news for you, but you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, specifically B cell, which is quite aggressive,’” Coulier recounted to PEOPLE.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, a part of the immune system responsible for fighting infections.
In this condition, lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, begin to proliferate abnormally, potentially resulting in tumors forming in other regions of the body.
“The most typical sign is generally a painless, soft, and rubbery swollen lymph node,” explained Dr. Jack Jacoub, a medical oncologist and the medical director at MemorialCare Cancer Institute in Orange County, California.
Certain environmental factors, such as exposure to insecticides and herbicides, may elevate the risk of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. However, it’s critical to recognize that many individuals diagnosed with this condition do not present any obvious risk factors. This means that while chemical exposure may heighten the risk, it is not a definitive cause. For tailored advice regarding your personal risk factors, always consult with a healthcare professional.