Hodgkin Lymphoma

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Lymphomas - malignant tumors of:

Primary lymphoid tissue (thymus)

Secondary tissue (lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils)

Pathophysiology:

Abnormal chromosomes present in cells of lymph nodes.

- Reed-Sternberg cell (RS cells) - not specific to HL

Usually arises in a single node

Molecular mechanisms causing malignant transformation of cells are unclear

- Viruses, genetic factors

Clinical Manifestations:

1st sign: enlarged unilateral painless swelling or mass in neck.

CXR shows mediastinal mass

Enlargement of cervical, axillary & inguinal lymph nodes common.

Fever / sweating / weight loss

Diagnosis:

May be difficult due to variety of symptoms.

CXR, biopsy, lymphangiography

Identify stage once diagnosis made

Treatment:

Cure possible regardless of stage (75% success rate).

Chemotherapy.

Radiation therapy.

HIgh dose chemo w/ BM or stem cell transplant (latest Tx option)

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