Hodgkin's Disease

Hodgkin's disease has one of the best cure rates of any type of cancer. As in other cancers, however, successful treatment depends on early detection—which depends, in turn, on recognizing symptoms.

HOW DOES HODGKIN'S DISEASE DEVELOP?
The exact cause of Hodgkin's disease is unknown. Malignant cells of the lymphatic system reproduce and infiltrate large lymph glands in the neck, armpits and groin, and also the spleen (an organ located high on the left side of the abdomen, just below the ribs.)

WHEN SHOULD I SUSPECT THAT MY CHILD HAS HODGKIN'S DISEASE?
A classic early sign of Hodgkin's disease is swollen lymph glands, usually in the groin or armpit. The glands typically do not hurt, but feel hard and rubbery. The spleen may become swollen, and the child may develop the yellowish eyes and skin of jaundice, which indicates that the liver is not functioning normally. Constant, widespread itching, intermittent fever, weight loss and night sweats are also symptoms of Hodgkin's disease. More general symptoms include fever and malaise. In some cases, however, the only symptom is enlarged lymph nodes.

IS MEDICAL ATTENTION NECESSARY?
Yes. The signs and symptoms mentioned above are associated with Hodgkin's disease as well as a number of potentially serious disorders. Therefore, a complete medical evaluation is essential.

HOW CAN THE PEDIATRICIAN TELL IF MY CHILD HAS HODGKIN'S DISEASE?
Several different tests may be needed. Among them are blood and bone marrow studies to determine which types of white blood cells are affected, an X ray of the affected lymph nodes and channels (called a lymphangiogram), and a biopsy of an enlarged lymph node.

If these tests point to Hodgkin's disease, then the child is usually admitted into the hospital for "staging," an operative procedure that takes several days. Tissue samples are taken from several lymph nodes, as well as from the liver, bone and the spleen (which is often removed). By analyzing these samples, the physician can tell precisely which cell types are involved, and how far the condition has progressed.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
A combination of radiation therapy and multidrug chemotherapy usually cures Hodgkin's disease. The five-year survival rate is 90 percent, and the ten-year rate is 80 percent.

GETTING HELP
Call your doctor if:
Your child has any symptoms suggesting Hodgkin's disease. Look for:

• Swollen, rubbery, nontender lymph nodes

• Yellowish skin and eyes

• Night sweats

• Intermittent fever

• Slowed growth

• Fatigue

• Widespread itching]

Excerpt from THE DISNEY ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BABY & CHILD CARE, © 1995 DSH Communications, Inc. This material is based on current medical research and, to the best of the editors' knowledge and understanding, is accurate and valid. However the reader should not use information contained in this material to alter a medically prescribed regimen or as a form of self-treatment, without seeking the advice of a licensed physician.