Hodgkins disease is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. This system is made up of lymph nodes, tonsils, spleen and bone marrow, and it helps the body fight off disease. Unlike other forms of cancer, Hodgkins disease originates within the cells of the lymphatic system. Multiple treatment options are used to treat Hodgkins disease in children with great success.
Identification
Hodgkins disease is considered to be very rare in children younger than five years old. This condition is more commonly seen in children between the ages of 10 and 14. Fewer than four percent of children who are diagnosed with cancer will have Hodgkins disease. According to the American Cancer Society, around 95 percent of children affected by Hodgkins disease will live for at least five years after treatment. Up to 90 percent of children diagnosed with Hodgkins will have no reoccurrence of the cancer.
Causes
The cause of Hodgkins disease remains unknown. It has been determined that genetics play a role in who develops this form of cancer. Families with one member affected by Hodgkins disease are at a higher risk of developing the cancer. This risk increases for siblings affected by the disease. It has also been suggested that children who have been affected by Epstein-Barr virus are at a higher risk of developing Hodgkins disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms for Hodgkins disease will vary for every child. Some of the first symptoms a child may complain of may resemble those of the flu. This includes a fever and an achy feeling all over the body. Children may also have swollen glands that can be felt through the skin in either the groin or neck. Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of Hodgkins disease. Children may also notice they sweat profusely while sleeping. Lymph nodes in the chest can also swell up and cause shortness of breath and a cough.
Treatment
Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat this type of cancer. Drugs used during chemotherapy can be injected by a needle into the body or taken orally. Chemotherapy is systemic, which means the drugs can attack cancer cells that are located in all parts of the body. Radiation therapy is also used to treat Hodgkins disease. This treatment option involves exposing the child to high dosages of X-rays. Many doctors will use radiation therapy in addition to chemotherapy.
Side Effects
Both chemotherapy and radiation result in a number of different side effects. Chemotherapy can cause children to vomit and feel nauseous. Children undergoing chemotherapy will likely lose their hair. Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system so it is important that children undergoing this treatment method avoid germs. Radiation therapy can cause children to feel exhausted. Stomach problems may also be experienced in children who have undergone radiation therapy.
Tags: Hodgkins disease, Hodgkins disease, percent children, used treat, affected Hodgkins, affected Hodgkins disease, cause children