The nurse reviews test results for a client and notes that the lymph node biopsy shows the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. The nurse knows this finding is indicative of which condition?
A.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
B.
Multiple myeloma
C.
Hodgkin lymphoma
D.
Acute lymphocytic leukemia
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Hodgkin lymphoma.
Explanation:
Reed-Sternberg cells are a distinctive feature used to diagnose Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of lymphoma that originates in the lymphatic system. These cells are large, abnormal lymphocytes that can be identified under a microscope in biopsy samples of affected lymph nodes.
Hodgkin Lymphoma:
- Reed-Sternberg Cells: The hallmark of Hodgkin lymphoma is the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, binucleated or multinucleated cells with a distinctive appearance. These cells are derived from B lymphocytes and are critical for the diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma. Their presence is usually confirmed through a lymph node biopsy.
- Symptoms and Diagnosis: Hodgkin lymphoma often presents with painless lymphadenopathy (swelling of lymph nodes), often starting in the cervical region. Other symptoms may include fever, night sweats, and weight loss (known as “B symptoms”). Diagnosis is made through histological examination of lymph node tissue, where Reed-Sternberg cells are identified.
- Treatment and Prognosis: Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma commonly involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. The prognosis for Hodgkin lymphoma is generally favorable compared to other lymphomas, especially when diagnosed early.
Differentiation from Other Conditions:
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma does not feature Reed-Sternberg cells. Instead, NHL encompasses a diverse group of blood cancers that vary in their cell types and disease progression. The presence of Reed-Sternberg cells helps differentiate Hodgkin lymphoma from NHL.
- Multiple Myeloma: This condition is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow and is not associated with Reed-Sternberg cells. It involves symptoms like bone pain, anemia, and kidney dysfunction, rather than lymph node involvement with Reed-Sternberg cells.
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): ALL involves the rapid proliferation of lymphoblasts, which are immature lymphocytes, and is not characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells. Instead, ALL affects the blood and bone marrow.
In summary, the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in a lymph node biopsy is a definitive indicator of Hodgkin lymphoma, distinguishing it from other similar conditions.