Hodgkin’s disease is a form of cancer that originates in the lymphatic tissue. Lymphatic tissue, which includes lymph nodes, is found throughout the human body; therefore, Hodgkin’s disease can start anywhere. Especially when detected early, treatment for Hodgkin’s disease is highly effective.
Dr. Thomas Hodgkin first recognized Hodgkin’s disease in 1832; the condition is named for him.
According t the American Cancer Society, 7,400 cases of Hodgkin’s disease appeared in 2000 in the United States. Approximately 1,400 people were expected to die of the disease. Anyone can get Hodgkin’s disease, but it is most prevalent among people ages 15-40 and older than age 55.
People who have had infectious mononucleosis, or “mono,” are at a slightly higher risk to contract Hodgkin’s disease. People with compromised immune systems, such as people with AIDS, are also at higher risk.
Hodgkin’s does not appear to be caused by any environmental factors, and the cause of the disease is unknown at this time.
Lymphatic tissue consists of lymph nodes, lymph vessels, the spleen, bone marrow, and the thymus. The lymphatic system forms blood and protects the body from germs. Lymph nodes are shaped like beans and are responsible for producing and storing infection-fighting white blood cells. Lymph vessels connect the lymph nodes to one another.
When Hodgkin’s disease sets in, it enlarges the lymphatic tissue and makes the tissue press on nearby organs and structures. The cancer spreads via the lymphatic vessels. If the cancer invades the blood vessels, then it may spread anywhere within the body.
