Young Woman’s ‘UTI’ Turns Out to Be Stage IV Lymphoma, Leading to Experimental Treatment and Remission
Emma Operacz, a vibrant 22-year-old, experienced a frightening turn of events when symptoms she initially dismissed as a urinary tract infection (UTI) were revealed to be Stage IV T-cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Her journey highlights the importance of persistent medical investigation and the potential of innovative treatments.
Initial Symptoms and Misdiagnosis
In June 2024, while attending a college graduation in Milwaukee, Operacz began experiencing symptoms consistent with a UTI. After over-the-counter medication failed to provide relief, she was prescribed antibiotics, which also proved ineffective. As her condition worsened, she developed side pain, fever, and debilitating fatigue, leaving her bedridden for two weeks. Initial tests, including a CT scan, ruled out common causes like kidney stones and appendicitis.
The Lymphoma Diagnosis
After seeking a second opinion, a urinary gynecologist discovered swollen lymph nodes in Operacz’s groin and referred her to the emergency room. Further examination led to a suspicion of lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Despite initially downplaying her concerns, Operacz’s symptoms continued to escalate, with a rising fever and heart instability. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis: Stage IV T-cell lymphoma, a rare blood cancer affecting approximately 15% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients . Her specific diagnosis was ALK+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma, more common in younger individuals.
A Challenging Treatment Journey
Operacz’s initial treatment proved unsuccessful, and the cancer spread to her central nervous system and brain. She was transferred to the Cleveland Clinic in July 2024, where her condition deteriorated rapidly. Her family feared the worst, with her sister, Sara Operacz, preparing for the possibility of losing her.
Experimental Treatment and Bone Marrow Transplant
Dr. Deepa Jagadeesh, Operacz’s oncologist, proposed an experimental treatment using alectinib, a lung cancer medication shown to be effective in pediatric patients with similar cancers due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier . The medication, approved by her insurance, led to a rapid improvement in Operacz’s condition and remission.
To further solidify her recovery, Dr. Jagadeesh recommended a bone marrow transplant. Sara Operacz was a match and readily donated stem cells in November 2024. The transplant aimed to eliminate any remaining microscopic cancer cells and establish a healthy immune system.
Recovery and Future Plans
Following the transplant, Operacz spent 70 days in isolation while her immune system recovered. She resumed her studies online and began rebuilding her life. In December 2025, she graduated from Eastern Michigan University .
Operacz is now pursuing a graduate degree in social work, with the goal of supporting other cancer patients. Her oncologist anticipates a low risk of relapse after two years and considers patients cured after five years. Operacz’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovative medical interventions, and the unwavering support of family and friends.