Hodgkin's disease

Hodgkin's disease', also known as Hodgkin lymphoma, is a type of lymphoma—a cancer originating from lymphocytes, a subset of white blood cells. It is distinguished from other forms of lymphoma by the presence of characteristic large, cancerous cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells. Named after Thomas Hodgkin, who first described abnormalities in the lymph system in 1832, Hodgkin's disease is a relatively rare cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system.

Etiology and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Hodgkin's disease remains unknown. However, it has been associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), genetic predisposition, and a history of infection with HIV. Other risk factors include age (most common in people between 20 and 40 years old, and those over 55), sex (slightly more common in males), and a family history of the disease.

Pathophysiology

Hodgkin's disease is characterized by the progressive enlargement of lymph nodes, spleen, and the development of systemic symptoms. The disease typically begins in a single lymph node and then spreads to adjacent nodes. Central to Hodgkin's lymphoma is the Reed-Sternberg cell, which is necessary for the diagnosis but not sufficient alone. These cells are usually derived from B lymphocytes, although occasionally they can come from T lymphocytes.

Clinical Features

Symptoms of Hodgkin's disease may include painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, persistent fatigue, fever and chills, night sweats, weight loss, and itching. Some patients may also experience coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest pain if the disease affects lymph nodes in the chest.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease involves a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans, and a biopsy of lymph node tissue. The biopsy is crucial for identifying Reed-Sternberg cells, which confirms the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for Hodgkin's disease depends on its stage, size, location, and the patient's age and health. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, stem cell transplantation. Advances in treatment have significantly improved the prognosis for individuals with Hodgkin's disease, with high survival rates.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with Hodgkin's disease has improved dramatically over the past few decades. The 5-year survival rate for all stages of Hodgkin lymphoma is about 87%. Early-stage disease has a particularly favorable prognosis, with survival rates exceeding 90%.

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent Hodgkin's disease due to its unclear etiology. However, early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

See Also

• Lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Immune System
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy