A type of cancer called Hodgkin's lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. Reed-Sternberg cells are abnormal white blood cells that can spread to other parts of the body when they become abnormal and grow out of control. It is most common in young adults and older adults, but it can affect anyone at any age.
The exact cause of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not known, but some factors may increase the risk of developing it. These include:
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or Epstein-Barr virus infection. About half of the cases of Hodgkin's lymphoma are caused by EBV, the virus that causes mononucleosis (mono). HIV weakened the immune system, making it more prone to cancer.
Family history of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Having a close relative who had Hodgkin’s lymphoma may increase the chance of getting it.
Gender and age. Hodgkin’s lymphoma is slightly more common in males than in females, and it has two peaks of incidence: one in young adults (age 20 to 39) and another in older adults (age 65 and above).
The most common symptom of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is painless swelling of one or more lymph nodes, usually in the neck, armpit, or groin. Other symptoms may include:
Fever and chills
Night sweats
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Itching all over the body
Increased sensitivity to alcohol or pain in the lymph nodes after drinking alcohol
Some people with Hodgkin’s lymphoma may not have any symptoms until the disease is advanced.
To diagnose Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about the medical history and symptoms. The doctor will also order some tests, such as:
Blood tests to check the number and type of blood cells and to look for signs of infection or inflammation.
Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET) scan to see if the lymph nodes or other organs are enlarged or affected by cancer.
Biopsy to remove a sample of tissue from a swollen lymph node or another site and examine it under a microscope for Reed-Sternberg cells. A biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
There are four main types of treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma, depending on the stage of the disease, the type and location of the affected lymph nodes, the presence or absence of symptoms, and the person's overall health and preferences.
Usually given through a vein (intravenously) or by mouth (orally), chemotherapy kills cancer cells by using drugs. It may be given alone or in combination with another treatment.
In radiation therapy, high-energy rays or particles are used to kill cancer cells. It can be given alone or in combination with chemotherapy or other treatments. Radiation therapy is usually administered from a machine outside the body (external beam radiation) or from a radioactive source inside the body (brachytherapy).
During a stem cell transplant, healthy stem cells are replaced with damaged or destroyed bone marrow by a donor. Stem cells are immature blood cells that develop into different types of blood cells. In order to restore the bone marrow's ability to form blood, high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be followed by a stem cell transplant.
In immunotherapy, drugs or substances are given to the patient to help the immune system fight cancer. Immunotherapy may be given alone or in combination with other therapies.
The goal of treatment is to cure Hodgkin's lymphoma or to control it for as long as possible. It is possible for some people to achieve remission, which means that there are no signs of cancer in their bodies after treatment. After a period of remission, some people may experience a recurrence of the cancer.
There is no sure way to prevent Hodgkin’s lymphoma, but some steps may help reduce the risk or detect it early. These include:
Avoiding exposure to viruses such as EBV or HIV by practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles, and getting vaccinated if available.
Eating a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake.
Having regular check-ups and reporting any unusual symptoms to a doctor.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Hodgkin's lymphoma, people can be more aware of their health and seek medical attention if necessary.
