HODGKIN'S DISEASE

General Information

DEFINITION--Malignant tumor of the lymph glands. This is a form of lymphoma.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

• Lymphocytes (white blood cells).
• Lymph glands (glands which check infection and produce immune substances).
• Spleen (a large lymph gland).

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--All ages, but most common in young adults and older persons. Hodgkin's disease is rare in children under 10.

> Swollen, non-tender, rubbery, distinct lymph glands anywhere in the body--

but most commonly in the armpit or groin.

• Intermittent fever and night sweats.
• Pain in the diseased area after drinking alcohol.
• Weight loss.
• Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes).
• General ill feeling.
• Anemia.
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.

CAUSES--Unknown, but research suggests a virus infection may be a factor.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Immunodeficiency (acquired or inherited).

HOW TO PREVENT--No specific preventive measures.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory studies of blood and bone marrow.
• Lymphangiogram (See Glossary).
• Biopsy (See Glossary) of lymph node.
• CT scan (See Glossary) of chest and abdomen, and chest x-ray.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Hospitalization for short periods to confirm diagnosis and for treatment.
• Surgery to discover the extent of disease.
• Radiation therapy.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Spread of malignancy to other parts of the body.
• Sterility in males from treatment.
• Heart or lung disorders, anemia, hypothyroidism and infections.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Usually curable with radiation therapy and anticancer drugs if diagnosed and treated early. With treatment, the 10-year survival rate is about 80%. The potential for cure varies according to the cell type discovered from biopsy of the lymph node.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• Try to remain optimistic about your treatment and chances for cure. A good mental attitude is a powerful ally.
• Good oral hygiene is important to prevent mouthsores, if receiving chemotherapy.
• Males receiving therapy may want to consider sperm-banking in case of sterility.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe anticancer drugs. Medication may cause side effects or adverse reactions in some people. New symptoms may be caused by the medicine, original disorder or a new illness. Side effects caused by medicine usually disappear when the body adjusts to the drug or when the drug is discontinued.

ACTIVITY--Remain as active as your strength allows.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have symptoms of Hodgkin's disease.
• The following occurs during treatment: Fever. Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain or tenderness) anywhere in the body. Swelling of the feet and ankles. Discomfort when urinating or decreased urination in 1 day.
• You think your medicine is causing symptoms.