Andy Whitfield, the star of the television series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” died on the weekend at the age of 39.
The death of the Welsh actor, who lived in Australia, has drawn attention to Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the disease that killed him.
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
It’s the most common cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is the network of organs, ducts and nodes that dispenses immune cells that help the body fight off infection and disease.
There are more than 20 types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The cells of the different types look different under a microscope, and they develop and spread differently. Some spread quickly while others spread slowly.
Who is susceptible?
It affects people of all ages but it is the most common childhood cancer. The cause has not been determined but it’s thought that a family history of the disease, the pre-existence of an autoimmune disease and exposure to certain environmental chemicals are contributing factors.
What are signs and symptoms?
The most common symptom is swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck; underarm or groin area. Other symptoms include, chills, fever and, lack of energy and weight loss. In some cases, itchy skin is a symptom.
It’s important to keep in mind that the above symptoms are often not caused by non-Hodgkins lymphoma. A diagnosis can only be made through testing.
What is treatment?
At the moment, there are four treatment options: chemotherapy, radiation, medications that boost the immune system and radio immunotherapy medications, through which monoclonal antibodies transport radioactive materials directly to cancer cells.
What is prognosis?
The prognosis can be promising but it depends on several factors, including the type of lymphoma, the extent of spread and response to therapy. The five-year survival rate ranges from 64 to 81 per cent.
Comments