What symptoms did Jessica Farrington mistake for menopause?

Jessica Farrington initially mistook symptoms like night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and itchy skin for perimenopause.

What cancer did Jessica Farrington have?

Jessica Farrington was diagnosed with stage four follicular lymphoma, a type of blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system.

How was Jessica Farrington treated for follicular lymphoma?

Jessica Farrington underwent a treatment plan including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and is now in remission with maintenance therapy.

Home / Health / Menopause Mimic: Woman's Cancer Symptoms Ignored

Menopause Mimic: Woman's Cancer Symptoms Ignored

30 Jan

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Summary

Woman mistook cancer symptoms for menopause due to her age.
Itchy skin and a lump in her armpit led to a cancer diagnosis.
She is now in remission after chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment.

Menopause Mimic: Woman's Cancer Symptoms Ignored

A 46-year-old mother from Texas initially attributed her symptoms of night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss to perimenopause. These symptoms persisted for months, compounded by itchy skin that she believed was due to environmental factors or menopause. It wasn't until she discovered a 'pea-sized' lump in her armpit that she sought medical evaluation in December 2024.

Initial tests for hormone levels, mammogram, and ultrasound of the lump were inconclusive. However, a follow-up ultrasound in March 2025 revealed significant changes in her lymph nodes. A biopsy confirmed follicular lymphoma, a slow-growing blood cancer of the lymphatic system, which had spread systemically, making her stage four.

Ms. Farrington underwent a demanding treatment regimen of chemotherapy and immunotherapy over six months. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she is now in remission. She continues with maintenance immunotherapy every two months for two years, as follicular lymphoma is not currently curable.