Ms. Y is a 31-year-old woman who reported to her physician that she has recently lost weight, always seems tired, and has experienced night sweats. A few months ago, she had noticed a small firm lump on her neck that was painless and not tender, so she ignored it. Closer physical examination revealed a swelling of several lymph nodes in the neck and throat region. A blood test indicated a decreased lymphocyte count and a lymph node biopsy revealed the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, confirming the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Discussion Questions
Relate the pathophysiologic changes to the manifestations and lab results. (See Hodgkin's Disease/Lymphoma-Pathophysiology, Signs and Symptoms.)
Discuss the four stages of the disease based on the Ann Arbor staging system, and determine which stage the patient is probably in. Discuss the prognosis.
Discuss the treatment options for this patient.
Discuss the differences between Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas.