Question 1

What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It is caused by the abnormal growth of Reed-Sternberg cells, large malignant lymphocytes that disrupt normal immune function. The Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis test is the most important blood test for monitoring Hodgkin's lymphoma because it reveals abnormal protein patterns that indicate disease activity.

Question 2

What causes Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Hodgkin's lymphoma is caused by the abnormal growth of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large malignant lymphocytes that develop in the lymph nodes and other lymphatic tissues. These cancerous cells crowd out healthy immune cells and disrupt the normal function of the lymphatic system. While the exact trigger is unknown, certain risk factors increase susceptibility, including Epstein-Barr virus infection, weakened immune system, and family history of the disease.

Question 3

What is the best test for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

The Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis test is the most important blood test for monitoring Hodgkin's lymphoma because it reveals abnormal protein patterns that indicate disease activity and immune system changes. This comprehensive analysis detects alterations in protein production and distribution caused by the cancer's effect on the lymphatic system. The Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (IL-2Ra/CD25) test is also essential for tracking disease progression, as it measures biomarkers of T-cell activation that become elevated when Hodgkin's lymphoma is active. While tissue biopsy and imaging confirm diagnosis, these blood tests provide critical information for monitoring treatment response and detecting disease changes over time.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin that last more than two weeks, especially if accompanied by unexplained fever, drenching night sweats, or unintentional weight loss. Get tested immediately if you notice painless lumps combined with extreme fatigue, persistent itching without rash, or chest pain and difficulty breathing. Testing is also important if you have a family history of lymphoma or have been diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus, as early monitoring can help detect disease progression.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms include painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin that persists for weeks. You might notice drenching night sweats that soak your sheets, unexplained fever that comes and goes, and unintentional weight loss of more than 10% of your body weight. Other common signs include persistent fatigue, severe itching without rash, chest pain, coughing, or difficulty breathing when lymph nodes in the chest are affected. Some people experience pain in swollen lymph nodes after drinking alcohol, which is a distinctive symptom of Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

People between ages 15-30 and those over 55 are at highest risk for developing Hodgkin's lymphoma. You have increased risk if you have been infected with Epstein-Barr virus (which causes mononucleosis), have a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or organ transplant medications, or have a family history of Hodgkin's lymphoma. Men are slightly more likely to develop the disease than women. Other risk factors include having a sibling with Hodgkin's lymphoma, which increases your risk three to seven times compared to the general population.

Question 7

What happens if Hodgkin's lymphoma is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Hodgkin's lymphoma spreads progressively through the lymphatic system to other organs, including the liver, lungs, bone marrow, and bones, which can be life-threatening. The growing cancer cells suppress your immune system, making you extremely vulnerable to serious infections that your body cannot fight. You may develop severe anemia, breathing difficulties from chest tumors, and organ failure as the disease advances. However, Hodgkin's lymphoma is highly treatable when caught early, with cure rates exceeding 80-90% in early stages, making prompt testing and treatment essential for the best outcomes.

Question 8

Can Hodgkin's lymphoma be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose Hodgkin's lymphoma, as diagnosis requires tissue biopsy and imaging studies to identify Reed-Sternberg cells and assess disease stage. However, blood tests play a crucial supporting role by detecting abnormal protein patterns, elevated inflammatory markers, and specific biomarkers like IL-2Ra/CD25 that suggest lymphoma activity. The Protein Electrophoresis and IL-2Ra tests help monitor disease progression, assess treatment response, and evaluate how the cancer affects your immune system and overall health. Blood work is an essential component of comprehensive lymphoma management alongside other diagnostic procedures.

Question 9

How is Hodgkin's lymphoma treated?

Accepted Answer

Hodgkin's lymphoma is treated primarily with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both, depending on the stage and location of the disease. The most common chemotherapy regimen is ABVD, which combines four powerful drugs that target cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used after chemotherapy to eliminate remaining cancer cells in affected lymph nodes. For advanced or recurrent cases, doctors may recommend high-dose chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation to rebuild the immune system. Treatment success rates are excellent, with most patients achieving complete remission, especially when the disease is detected and treated early.

Question 10

How can I prevent Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

There is no proven way to prevent Hodgkin's lymphoma because the exact cause remains unknown and most risk factors cannot be controlled. However, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy immune system through proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. Preventing Epstein-Barr virus infection by avoiding sharing drinks or utensils with people who have mononucleosis may lower risk, as this virus is associated with some cases. If you have HIV or other immune-compromising conditions, working closely with your doctor to manage these conditions effectively may help reduce your lymphoma risk.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Accepted Answer

While undergoing treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma, you can support your body by eating a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables to maintain strength and support immune function. Get adequate rest and manage fatigue by balancing activity with frequent breaks, as extreme tiredness is common during treatment. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and practice good hygiene to reduce infection risk when your immune system is compromised. Manage treatment side effects like nausea with small, frequent meals, and consider gentle activities like walking or yoga to maintain energy levels. Always communicate with your healthcare team about any home remedies or supplements before using them, as some may interfere with treatment.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hodgkin's Lymphoma Blood Test

What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

What causes Hodgkin's lymphoma?

What is the best test for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

When should I get tested for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

References

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