In a nutshell
This study reviewed how the research on pediatric and adult Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) could be applied to adolescent HL. The main finding was that treatments for pediatric and adult HL have similar effects in adolescent HL.
Some background
About 8500 people are diagnosed with HL in the US each year. There are 2 main types of HL: classical and nodular lymphocyte predominant HL. They differ in the type of blood cells they affect. HL is diagnosed by identifying cells unique to the type of HL under a microscope. Adolescent HL is diagnosed between the ages of 15-39. Treatments for HL in children and adults have improved. However, this improvement has been slower for adolescent HL. Therefore, treatments for HL in children and adults are often used for adolescents. It is important to review the research into adult and pediatric HL. This may help researchers understand why differences in the success of adolescent HL treatment exist.
Methods & findings
This paper analysed research on adult and pediatric HL. The research included 3 clinical trials in children with HL and 3 trials in adults with HL. Age, treatment, disease worsening and general survival were measured.
Medical imaging, tests and questionnaires are used to determine the stage of the HL. Medical imaging is also used to track the effectiveness of treatments. Chemotherapy is often used to treat adult HL. A combination often used is ABVD [doxorubicin (Adriamycin), bleomycin (Blenoxane), vinblastine (Velban) and dacarbazine (DTIC)]. For children with HL, ABV treatment is common. Two other chemotherapies, prednisone (Deltasone) and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), may also be added. This study found that adult and pediatric HL treatments have similar effects in adolescent HL.
The bottom line
This study outlined how research into the diagnosis and treatment strategies of adult and pediatric HL may apply to adolescent HL.
The fine print
This study reported on previously carried out research. Therefore, the findings may be influenced by the opinions of the authors.
What’s next?
If you have questions about the management of HL, please consult your doctor.
Published By :
British Journal of Haematology
Date :
Nov 20, 2018
