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- Actor Dave Coulier, known for playing Uncle Joey on Full House, announced he has stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- Non-Hodkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, part of the body’s immune system.
- It can cause symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, chest pain, or fever.
- Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted drug therapy.
Full House actor Dave Coulier, 65, has been diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The actor was diagnosed in October after a respiratory infection caused his lymph nodes to swell, reports PEOPLE.
When the swelling increased rapidly, Coulier’s doctor advised him to undergo PET and CT scans and have a biopsy.
“Three days later, my doctors called me back and they said, ‘We wish we had better news for you, but you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and it’s called B cell and it’s very aggressive,’” he told PEOPLE.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system that helps fight germs.
In this type of cancer, white blood cells (lymphocytes) grow abnormally and can lead to the growth of tumors in other parts of the body.
“The most common presentation of it is usually a swollen lymph node that is painless, and soft and rubbery,” said Jack Jacoub, MD, medical oncologist and medical director of MemorialCare Cancer Institute at Orange Coast and Saddleback Medical Centers in Orange County, Calif.
There are certain factors that can raise the likelihood of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, including being exposed to insecticides and herbicides. However, it’s important to note that many individuals who are diagnosed with this type of cancer do not have any identifiable risk factors. In other words, while exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk, it is not the sole cause of the disease. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and guidance on managing your risk factors.
