What symptoms typically accompany Substage B in the Ann Arbor staging system?

In the context of the Ann Arbor staging system for lymphoma, Substage B is characterized by the presence of systemic or constitutional symptoms. These symptoms typically include fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. The identification of these symptoms is critical because they often indicate a more aggressive disease process and can influence treatment decisions and prognosis.

Substage A, in contrast, indicates the absence of these systemic symptoms. Therefore, recognizing that constitutional symptoms are integral to defining Substage B helps to clarify the stage of the disease and provides insight into the patient's overall condition. The presence of such symptoms suggests that the cancer may have a broader effect on the body, reinforcing the importance of thorough evaluation and management in patients displaying these features.