Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, a part of the circulatory system involved in transport of nutrients and waste products as from our various organs which is under constant surveillance by our immune system to detect unwanted trafficking of infectious agents during this transport. The lymphatics drain into various collection centres called lymph nodes at various points in our body which tends to swell if there is an infection or a malignancy.
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of blood cancer of the white blood cells called lymphocytes, characterized by the presence of abnormal cells, called Reed-Sternberg cells, in the lymphatic system. It is a cancer with a very high cure rate nearing > 90% in majority of the patients and good prognosis with the current treatment modalities.
Symptoms of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Persistent fever
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Itching
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
Causes and Risk Factors of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
The exact cause of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not clearly known.
Risk factors include:
• Age (15 and 35 years and > 55 years)
• Gender (more common in men than women)
• Family history
• HIV infection
• Infection with this virus or chronic immune stimuli..
• Weakened immune system
Diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Biopsy of lymph nodes or other affected tissues is essential and mandatory for the ultimate diagnosis
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans will be used to know the extent of the cancer spread. Early cancers are highly curable and is essential to know for tapering the chemotherapy and to decide on the number of cycles.
• Bone marrow biopsy in select number of cases. May not be essential for diagnosis and can be omitted if Whole body PET-CT can be done.
Treatment of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Stem cell transplantation
• Immunotherapy in relapsed refractory patients
• Targeted therapy
Preventive Tips against Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and any other malignancies in general
• Avoid exposure to chemicals and toxins
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a healthy diet
• Protect yourself from infections
• Quit alcohol and smoking
• Get plenty of rest and manage stress
• Stay hydrated
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a highly curable cancer that affects the lymphatic system, characterized by abnormal B lymphocytes or Reed-Sternberg cells in the lymph nodes. Early diagnosis and appropriate therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplantation can often cure the disease. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial, and with proper care and support, many people with Hodgkin’s lymphoma can lead healthy lives with regular follow-up.
