Hodgkin’s Disease or Lymph Node Cancer

The Hodgkin’s disease or the lymph node cancer affects the lymphatic system a part of the immune system therefore it is also called the cancer of the immune system.

This cancer is the most common type in the UK as it accounts for more than 1500 cases each year. It is more likely to affect people of age group 20 and 40.

Causes of Hodgkin’s Disease or Lymph Node Cancer

The Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer cause is exactly unknown. Certain evidences prove that it may be caused by the same virus that causes glandular fever. The name lymph node cancer comes from its origin as this cancer affects the lymph nodes which are the vessels which run throughout the body.

These lymph nodes are responsible for manufacturing and circulating the lymph. Lymph is a pale fluid which carries the white blood cells responsible to fight infection.

Types

The lymph node cancer or the lymphatic cancer is of two main types the Hodgkin’s disease and the non-Hodgkin’s disease. The two are distinguished based on the different kind of white blood cells they affect.

Though their symptoms are similar they differ in the way they affect the individuals and the outcomes of the disease. Fortunately the good thing about the Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer is that it is curable.

According to the research, in the United States, lymphatic cancers account for about five percent of all cases of cancer and Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer in particular accounts for less than one percent of all cases of cancer in the United States.

Because the lymphatic system is part of the body’s immune system, patients with weakened immune system, such as from HIV infection or from certain drugs or medication, also have a higher incidence of Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Hodgkin’s Disease or Lymph Node Cancer

The first indication or the sign of Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer is that the lymph nodes becomes enlarged or feels hard. One should keep in mind that mere enlargement of the lymph nodes is not a sure sign of the disease. (Hodgkin’s Disease Symptoms)

It may be as a result of some other infections as well. Therefore it is suggested that a clinical microscopic observation be made to confirm the presence of the disease.

Hodgkin’s Disease or Lymph Node Cancer Diagnosis

The Hodgkin’s disease or lymph node cancer diagnosis is done by a thorough observation. This disease is not only found to affect the lymph nodes but also the other deeper parts of the body.

Some tests may be performed initially to decide the best method of Hodgkin’s disease treatment. Like the

  • X-rays.
  • CT Scan – a special whole body scan
  • Removal of an affected gland for investigation.
  • A bone marrow sample – taken from the back of the hip bone.

The presence of secondary cancer in the lymph nodes is confirmed by the presence of larger lymph nodes or a group of lymph nodes which may be clearly predictable in a scan such as an ultrasound scan, CT scan or MRI scan.