CD15 (Myeloid Cell Marker) in Khar Road East, Mumbai

Hodgkin disease, better known as Hodgkin lymphoma, is an uncommon form of cancer. It disease attacks the lymphatic system of the body. This system is essentially a network of several lymph nodes connected by vessels responsible for flushing out waste products and fluid from the body.

The lymph nodes also act as filters that strain any foreign cells and organisms out of the body. Moreover, this system is also involved in producing lymphocytes, another form of white blood cells. These cells protect the body against infections caused by fungi, viruses and bacteria.

When the lymphatic system is warding off any infection, the tissues or lymph nodes in that area will become tender and swollen. It's the body's typical reaction to infections.

When these lymphocytes or lymph nodes multiply abnormally, it produces malignant cells that invade other tissues across the body. This is known as lymphoma, which can further bifurcate into Hodgkin Lymphoma and non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

There is no exact known cause for Hodgkin lymphoma, but some factors which deem to be at play are as follows:

• Family history: Kids with any parent suffering from Hodgkin lymphoma are at significant risk. Identical twins and same-sex siblings are also at higher risk if one of the two has the disease.
• Viruses: Epstein - Barr virus, which is also responsible for causing mononucleosis, might also increase the risk for Hodgkin lymphoma. 
• Environmental factors: Minimum exposure to viral infection during formative years can later cause Hodgkin lymphoma.
• HIV infection: Individuals infected with HIV are more prone to Hodgkin lymphoma.

If you believe you are suffering from Hodgkin lymphoma, you will observe the following symptoms:

• Persistent exhaustion
• Excessive sweating during the night
• Extreme itching
• Swollen lymph nodes in your groin, armpit and neck
• Fever
• Unintentional weight loss
• Pain in lymph nodes post alcohol consumption

If these symptoms persist over time, you should meet your healthcare provider.

Your doctor may order a CD15 (Myeloid Cell Marker) test. The CD15, also known as Lewis X antigen or X hapten, helps identify the LeuM1 antibody. This test determines whether you have the Reed-Sternberg cells or not.

The Reed-Sternberg cells appear in individuals who suffer from Hodgkin lymphoma. These are giant, abnormal white blood cells or lymphocytes with several nuclei. As the disease progresses, the number of Reed-Sternberg cells increases.

Getting this test will help:

• Detect lymphomas and leukaemia
• Determine if you suffer especially from Hodgkin lymphoma or not
• Check whether the ongoing treatment for lymphoma is effective or not

Apollo 24|7 offers a detailed CD15 (myeloid cell marker) test, which can be booked through their website from the comforts of your home.