It is the rapid production of Reed-Sternberg cells, which destroy the normal structure of lymph nodes.
HODGKINS Disease has four stages.
Stage I is a single lymph node region.
Stage II is two or more lymph node region on one side of the diaphragm.
Stage III affects both sides of the diaphragm, but is limited to lymph nodes and spleen.
Stage IV involves bones, liver, skin, gastrointestinal tract, renal, central nervous system, etc.
History of infectious mononucleosis or tonsillectomy.
Familial tendency.
Hydantoin derivatives such as dilantin.
Age (high incidence in young adults age 20-40).
Sex (2:1 ratio of men to women are affected).
Get adequate rest to reduce tissue demand of oxygen.
Prevent infection, or report any early signs of infection.
Avoid people with upper respiratory infection.
Monitor temperature closely.
Perform regular breathing exercises to prevent lung complications.
Prevent possibility of bleeding:
Avoid rectal thermometers, suppositories, or enemas.
Avoid straining or forceful blowing of the nose.
Use safety measures to prevent cuts and hemorrhage (soft toothbrush, safety razor, etc.).
Avoid aspirin.
Report early signs of bleeding such as bruises, bleeding gums, etc.
Get adequate nutrition:
Eat small, frequent meals.
Eat high-protein, high-calorie foods. (Provide "Increased Calories" and "Weight Reduction" handouts.)
Refer to anorexia or nausea handouts. (Refer to "Alteration in Nutrition: Nausea and Vomiting" and "Alteration in Nutrition: Anorexia" Teaching Guides.)
Provide good skin care, with frequent position changes and good hygiene.
Follow treatments as ordered by physician:
Radiation. (Refer to Radiation Teaching Guide.)
Chemotherapy. (Refer to Chemotherapy Teaching Guide.)
Renal failure.
Anemia.
Liver failure.
Paraplegia.
Lung complications.