Hodgkin's disease (HL) is a lymphoma type caused by EBV in most cases and characterized with swollen lymph nodes . Lymphoma is a cancer type affecting lymphatic systems. HL is divided into two major types: classical and nodular lymphocyte predominant. It is a cancer derivative of B-cell causing tumorous Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells (HRS). HL is rampant in western countries with youth population consisting of the majority of patients. Classical HL is the most common type with 95% prevalence rated while nodular contained the remaining 5%. Caused by Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Risk factors are genetic factors and presence of HIV/AIDS. Male gender is also considered a risk factor because of their high prevalence rates. However, root causes are still unknown but it is attributed to gene mutation. Advanced multiplication of cells result to increased accumulation in the lymphatic system especially at the nodes causing swelling.
Analysis
Diagnosis of HL is done through: imaging examinations such as X-rays, lung health determination, bone marrow and node biopsy, immunophenotyping and blood count. ECG is harnessed to check heart operations. Diagnosis is carried out to determine presence of mutated cells in the body especially their associated characteristics.Treatment of HL is dependent on the stage of disease development. Treatments include (and not restricted to) bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Medications i.e. oral and intravenous are prescribed to suppress cancer cells development and further mutation. Stem cell transplants are also effective in replenishing the removed portions of cancer-containing tissues in the bone marrow.
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Prognosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma has been reducing with increased advancements in management techniques, research and treatment diversification. Chemotherapy has facilitated high rates of survival but more data and details are unavailable while research continues. According to the article by Institute of Cancer Research, there is quantifiable relationships between genetic make-up i.e. DNA changes and development of lymphoma (Science Daily, 2017). according to tests done, scientists discovered widespread DNA link to lymphocytes which facilitated HL development. Also, DNA offers variable aspects in increasing individual susceptibility and risk.
Six aspects of DNA have been discovered in relation to increased HL prevalence. The studies suggest that about five of the DNA results affected lymphocytes which have the responsibility of maintaining body immunity. However there are also similar genetic characteristics to autoimmune disorders e.g. rheumatoid sclerosis. Lastly, the writer states that presence of autoimmune disorders does not predispose individuals to any kind of lymphoma. The research is based on a small index population and does not actually justify the actual relationship between the two factors. Future questions on research include: what are the changes attributed to HL in lymphocytes? Can gene therapy help in managing Hodgkin's lymphoma?
According to studies by Jacobson and Abramsons (2012), HIV/AIDS patients are highly susceptible to HL even in combined ART. The journal relates the binding factors between HIV and HL in anti-retrovirus therapies, prognosis changes attributed to malignancies and toxicity influenced by drug interactions. The report lacks effective trial results based randomized studies. Further questions on research include: is scanning an effective method of diagnosing and evaluating HIV related Hodgkin's lymphoma? Are all ART regimens responsible for toxicity?
Conclusion
Hodgkin's lymphoma is becoming more prevalent among youth whether living with HIV or not. Recent studies have not described on the vital relationship. However, in HIV/AIDS patients, lymphoma has been attributed to increased toxicity facilitated by the antiretroviral regimens. In relation to DNA modifications influenced by lymphoma, characteristics are developed especially in patients with autoimmune conditions. More advanced research and clinical tests need to be carried out in ensuring advanced knowledge of the above aspects of HL, its exact prognosis, management methods and drug therapies which may be incorporated in advanced stages of the diseases.
References
Science daily Article, 2017. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/12/171201090946.htm
Jacobson, C. A., & Abramson, J. S. (2012). HIV-associated Hodgkin's lymphoma: prognosis and therapy in the era of cART. Advances in hematology , 2012 .
