Hodgkin's Lymphoma

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What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

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Hodgkin's Lymphoma is a type of lymphoma that usually arises from the lymphocytes found within the lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes are groups of lymphatic cells held together by connective tissue, distributed throughout the body. Lymph fluid is produced when the blood passes through the tissues. Most of the cellular content of the blood (white cells, red cells and platelets) stays within the blood vessels, some of the liquid content (water, proteins, antibodies, fats) and some white cells pass through and bathe the tissues in nutrients.

The lymphatic fluid is collected by the lymphatic vessels and channeled to the local lymph nodes, where it is filtered and passed onwards to the next set of lymphatic vessels. The direction of drainage is from the periphery to central, with the lymph ultimately emptying into the subclavian vein via the thoracic duct in the chest. The lymph nodes produce lymphocytes which are mainly responsible for producing antibodies.

Who gets Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

Hodgkin's Lymphoma is relatively uncommon, occurring in approximately 3 per 100 000 and occurs usually in early adulthood. There can be a second peak with Hodgkin's Lymphoma occurring in older adults, with sex incidence being slightly more common in men.

Geographically, Hodgkin's Lymphoma tumour is found worldwide, with some mild geographical variation.

Predisposing Factors

The cause of most cases of Hodgkin's lymphoma is unknown.

There may be a genetic predisposition as first degree relatives of people with Hodgkin's Lymphoma are at a slightly higher risk (9 per 100 000) of developing this disease.

Progression

Hodgkin's Lymphoma tumour spreads by passage through the lymphatic channels to adjacent lymph nodes. As the spleen is an important organ of the lymphatic system, it may also be involved. Later in Hodgkin's Lymphoma may spread via the bloodstream to the liver, other organs and bone.

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