Castleman disease
Castleman disease (pronounced: kas-uhl-muhn dih-zeez) is a rare and complex group of disorders that involve an overgrowth of cells in the body's lymph nodes. The etymology of the disease is derived from the name of Dr. Benjamin Castleman, who first described the condition in the 1950s.
Definition
Castleman disease, also known as giant lymph node hyperplasia and angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia, is a group of inflammatory disorders that result in an overgrowth of cells in the body's lymph nodes. The disease is not cancerous, but it can lead to serious complications, including cancer.
Types
There are two main types of Castleman disease: unicentric and multicentric. Unicentric Castleman disease (UCD) affects only one lymph node, while multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) affects multiple lymph nodes and can also affect other organs in the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Castleman disease can vary greatly depending on the type. UCD often has no symptoms, while MCD can cause fever, fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats.
Causes
The exact cause of Castleman disease is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal response to infection or a malfunction in the immune system. Some cases of MCD are associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8).
Treatment
Treatment for Castleman disease depends on the type and severity of the disease. UCD is often treated with surgery to remove the affected lymph node. MCD may require more aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Castleman disease
- Wikipedia's article - Castleman disease
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