Haematological Malignancies

Question 1

Age range + risk factors for Hodgkin’s lymphoma

Answer 1

Bi-modal ages (20-25 and then ~80)

Risk factors:
- HIV
- EBV
- Other autoimmune conditions
- Family history

Question 1

What is lymphoma and how is it classified?

Answer 1

Cancer of the lymphatic system leading to proliferation of a monoclonal population of lymphoid cells in the lymph nodes.

Classification:

Hodgkin’s vs. Non-Hodgkin’s

Non-Hodgkin’s -> high grade vs. low grade

High-grade -> B or T cell
Low-grade -> B cell

Question 2

Presentation of lymphoma (+ specific things for Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s)

Answer 2

Lymphadenopathy (non-tender, firm, rubbery)
B symptoms (earlier in non)
Fatigue
SOB
Recurring infections
Cough

Hodgkin’s specific
- lymph node pain after drinking alcohol

Non-Hodgkin’s specific
- extra-nodal disease e.g. dyspepsia, dysphagia, bone pain etc.
- organomegaly
- testicular mass