The rocker was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2013 and he thought he had beaten the disease that November (13) when doctors declared he was in remission.

However, he faced another round of aggressive treatment in early 2014 when he underwent a stem cell transplant, and now Campbell admits the disease has struck his lymphatic system again.

The 52 year old took to Facebook.com on Friday (19Jun15) to share the sad news with fans and announce he will be sitting out the opening dates of Def Leppard's upcoming joint tour with Styx and Tesla as a result.

He wrote, "I'm saddened by the fact that my cancer has returned. However, I'm beyond consolation that it's (sic) return will prevent me from being able to do my job for a while. I'm still working on a schedule of treatment with my doctors, but I will see you all very soon. My apologies."

The latest Def Leppard trek is due to kick off in Tampa, Florida on Tuesday (26Jun15).

Trixter guitarist Steve Brown will fill in for Campbell once more after previously stepping in as his temporary replacement during his previous cancer treatments.

Campbell is expected to return to the stage at a later date as he plans to work his treatments around the band's tour schedule.