Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause is not known. However it has been put forth that there occurs uncontrolled and abnormal proliferation of the lymphoid cells. Lymphocytes are of two types B and T .In most of the cases B cells are affected while in some T cells affection is seen. Weakened immune system can be one of the causes. The proliferation of the cells is also triggered by infection like HIV, infection by human herpes virus or post organ transplantation .
Clinical presentations:
There are two main types of Hodgkin’s diseases- Classic Hodgkin’s diseases, Nodular Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Classic Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the most common type of cancer accounting for 95% of cases. The cancerous cell in this type of cancer is called as Reed Sternberg cell. These cells are much larger as compared to the normal lymphocytes and the enlarged lymphocytes have less number of these abnormal cells and a large number of surrounding normal cells. The nodular Hodgkin’s Lymphoma accounts for about 5% of cases. The cells in this type are large cells called as popcorn cells. Enlargement of the lymph nodes especially of the armpits groin or neck region, sweating, fever and itching are the characteristic symptoms seen. The enlargement of lymph nodes is painless. Weight loss and loss of appetite is complained by the patient. Coughing, difficulty in breathing, pain in abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and constipation are the other associated symptoms.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Biopsy of the lymph nodes (excision or FNAC) is most diagnostic. Routine blood test and a profile of specialized blood test like bone marrow test, immunoglobulin determination test, measurement of the uric acid along with phenotyping of surface antigens can be done. Other investigations recommended are X-ray, MRI or CT scans of the chest, abdomen and pelvis.
Treatment:
In cases where the patient is asymptomatic no treatment or watchful wait is required. Patients who suffer from marked systemic complaints needs to be treated immediately. Chemotherapy is the main therapy recommended. Radiotherapy must be adopted. Blood and platelet transfusion is done in cases where the blood count is low. Stem cell transplantation is beneficial for the patient.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the pain. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
