About ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma
What is ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALK-negative ALCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that affects the lymphatic system. It is a type of T-cell lymphoma, meaning it originates from a type of white blood cell called a T-cell. ALK-negative ALCL is characterized by the presence of large, abnormal cells in the lymph nodes and other organs. It is usually aggressive and can spread quickly to other parts of the body. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
What are the symptoms of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
Symptoms of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma can vary depending on the location of the tumor, but may include:
- Swelling of lymph nodes
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Bone pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Enlarged liver or spleen
What are the causes of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
The exact cause of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is unknown. However, some risk factors have been identified, including exposure to certain chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, and certain viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are at an increased risk of developing ALCL.
What are the treatments for ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
Treatments for ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy. Chemotherapy is the most common treatment and may include drugs such as doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone. Radiation therapy may be used to target specific areas of the body affected by the lymphoma. Stem cell transplant may be used to replace damaged cells with healthy ones. Targeted therapy is a newer form of treatment that uses drugs to target specific proteins in cancer cells.
What are the risk factors for ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
1. Exposure to radiation
2. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as vinyl chloride
3. Having certain genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome
4. Having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, organ transplant, or chemotherapy
5. Being a young adult or adolescent
6. Being male
7. Having a family history of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Is there a cure/medications for ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma?
There is no known cure for ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or stem cell transplantation. Medications used to treat ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma include brentuximab vedotin, gemcitabine, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide.