I was just diagnosed with stage 4 DCLB non-hodgkins. When I looked at the comment section of the biopsy it also read that follicular lymphoma was suspected too. My doctor never said anything. Is this possible?
Hi, Loril, sorry for your news but welcome to the place know one wants to be but many come to value.
I have read that it is possible to have two types of lymphoma. In fact, I have spent the last 5 months confirming that this was not happening in my case. My original biopsy indicated the presence of both Marginal Zone and Follicular lymphoma. It has turned out not to be so (I have Follicular, Stage 3) but reinforced for me the absolute need to get a second opinion if there is ANY ambiguity in your pathology. My second has been confirmed to be the correct diagnosis which is at least one firm checkpoint in this journey I am on (I haven't had many).
You should ask your doctor to get a second opinion of your biopsy materials at a National Cancer Center. He/she should be supportive of the request and should help you get that done. The only time this would be not true would be if you are already being seen at one.
At the same time, if you are S4 DLBCL, than you have to look at treatment options now as that is an aggressive type of lymphoma that responds very well to treatment and is curable in many cases. The follicular is an indolent type of the disease which is slow growing but currently classed as incurable, though many advances seem to be on the near horizon.
Finally, you need to be fully involved in your care decisions, whenever possible. Take a notebook to appointments that is your "cancer book" and write out questions in advance. Record answers and anything else about your treatment you want/need to know. Ask questions, expect answers and be in control of the process to the best of your ability and willingness. Good luck with everything and we will be here for you as you choose.
Good health,
kermica