Hodgkin's Lymphoma is a cancer affecting the lymph system in the body. While it normally affects those aged 15 to 35 and over 50, it can also attack children. More men than women seem to develop Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?
Hodgkin's Lymphoma is a malignant growth of cancerous cells in the lymph nodes and lymph system. While it starts in the lymph system, it may quickly spread throughout the body.
Causes of Hodgkin's Lymphoma
The cause of Hodgkin's Lymphoma is unknown. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with Epstein-Barr disease, seem to be more susceptible to developing it.
Symptoms of Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Symptoms of Hodgkin's Lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin, sweating, tiredness and a feeling of overall sickness.
Stages of Hodgkin's Lymphoma
In Stage 1, one group of lymph nodes is affected. By Stage 2, two or more groups of lymph nodes on the same side of the diaphragm are involved. In Stage 3, lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm are affected. By Stage 4, other parts of the body outside of the lymph system have been affected.
Treatments for Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Treatments for Hodgkin's Lymphoma include chemotherapy, which uses anti-cancer drugs to target the lymphoma cells; radiotherapy, using high beams of radiation to kill lymphoma cells; and, if those treatments fail, sometimes stem cell transplants to kill lymphoma cells.
Prognosis for Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Once a patient reaches Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma, the prognosis is that 60 percent of them will be cured. Known as one of the most curable forms of cancer, Hodgkin's Lymphoma usually responds well to treatment.
Tags: Hodgkin Lymphoma, lymph nodes, lymph system, lymphoma cells, Stage Hodgkin, Stage Hodgkin Lymphoma