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HomeCancerHodgkin Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Immune Support
Key Takeaways

What is Hodgkin lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the white blood cells called lymphocytes. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. They arise from different cell types, behave differently, spread differently, and respond differently to treatment — so it is important to know which one you have. To understand Hodgkin lymphoma, you need to know about the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system that helps fight infections. The lymphatic system is mostly made up of cells called lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Hodgkin lymphoma is distinguished by the presence of characteristic Reed-Sternberg cells.

Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms

The most common sign of Hodgkin lymphoma is enlarged lymph nodes. However, this is not exclusive to Hodgkin lymphoma — enlarged lymph nodes can occur with other cancers, inflammatory diseases or infections. Other signs and symptoms include: night sweats, weight loss, fever, weakness at night, and cough or shortness of breath.

Causes of Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is not contagious and is thought not to be hereditary. Although risk increases if first-degree relatives (parents, siblings or children) had lymphoma, this is likely due to lifestyle factors, as there is no "inherited" Hodgkin lymphoma gene. Risk factors outside your control include: having a disease that weakens the immune system, such as HIV; treatment that weakens the immune system, such as immunosuppressant drugs after organ transplantation; previous Epstein-Barr virus infection; and other immune-related conditions.

Hodgkin lymphoma treatment

The specific treatment plan depends on your general health, age, and the extent of the cancer. The main treatments are chemotherapy, or chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy. Sometimes chemotherapy is combined with steroid drugs. Some people are also given biological (targeted) preparations. Treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma is quite effective — it is one of the best-treatable forms of cancer.

Supplements for cancer

You need to balance your diet and the other factors that only YOU can control (smoking, alcohol and so on). Then cancer treatment (such as chemotherapy) will be even more effective. With natural supplements you can help the immune system fight cancer cells. Effectiveness depends on the dose and duration of use. Concentrated mushroom-polysaccharide extracts are studied for their role in activating NK cells and macrophages during oncological disease.

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Chemotherapy and radiotherapy suppress immunity. Concentrated mushroom polysaccharides are studied for their role in activating NK cells and macrophages.

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What is Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer beginning in the lymphatic system, most often in the lymph nodes. It differs from other lymphomas in having characteristic Reed-Sternberg cells. It is one of the best-treatable forms of cancer, especially when diagnosed early.

Do you need to support the immune system when treating Hodgkin lymphoma?

Yes. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy strongly suppress the immune system. Concentrated mushroom-polysaccharide extracts are studied for their role in activating NK cells and macrophages. It is important to choose a concentrated multi-extract formula such as Lentinan AXT by Zenius Labs™.

What is the survival rate for Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the best-treatable forms of cancer. When diagnosed early, five-year survival exceeds 90%. But even after successful treatment, long-term immune support is important because a risk of recurrence remains.

What are the symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma?

The most common symptoms are enlarged lymph nodes (most often in the neck), heavy night sweats, unexplained fever, and weight loss. These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer, but if you notice them it is worth seeing a doctor.

How is Hodgkin lymphoma treated?

The main treatment is chemotherapy, often combined with radiotherapy. In more severe cases, biological (targeted) therapy or stem-cell transplantation may be used. Immune support during treatment is important.

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