Hodgkin Lymphoma
Definition
Lymphomas are a group of diseases caused by malignant lymphocytes that accumulate in lymph nodes and cause lymphadenopathy.
Signs & Symptoms
Painless, non-tender, asymmetrical, firm, discrete and rubbery enlargement of superficial lymph nodes. Splenomegaly.
Risk Factors
“Bimodal“-majority in young adults. Rare in children. 2:1 (> male).
Peripheral blood characteristics
Normochromic, normocytic anemia. Neutrophilia and eosinophilia are frequent. Platelet count is normal or increased during early stages of the disease and decreased in the later stages.
Important investigations & related results
Reed-Sternberg cells are seen. CD20+, CD15+ and B cell antigen is negative. ESR and CRP usually raised. Serum LDH is increased initially.
Staging
Ann Arbor (Stage I – IV) and A or B.
Treatment & management
Radiotherapy or chemotherapy or both. Depends on stage and A or B.
Histological findings in lymph node biopsy with Reed-Sternberg cells.
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