General Information About Castleman Disease
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a disease characterized by the abnormal and massive enlargement of lymph nodes (glands), which are a part of the immune system, despite the absence of cancerous cells inside them.
No, lymphoma is a type of cancer. Castleman disease is not cancer, but it acts like lymphoma by enlarging the lymph nodes and increases the risk of developing lymphoma in advanced cases.
Unicentric: It is the enlargement of a lymph node in only one single region (e.g., only in the neck or chest); it is more benign.
Multicentric: It is when all the lymph nodes in the body become diseased at the same time; it is the severe form that causes fever and organ failure.
In the unicentric form, there is mostly just a painless palpable lump. In the multicentric form, high fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and enlargement of the liver and spleen are seen.
Lymph node enlargement is detected through physical examination and Computed Tomography (CT). A definitive diagnosis is only made by surgically removing the enlarged lymph node (Biopsy) and examining it under a pathology microscope.
In the unicentric form, when that single lymph node is surgically removed, the disease is completely healed (Cured). In the multicentric (widespread) form, drugs that suppress the immune system (Cortisone, Biologic Agents, and sometimes mild chemotherapy) are used.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
