Staging and Classification of Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma

Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) is staged using the Ann Arbor staging system, which is commonly used for non-Hodgkin lymphomas. This system classifies the disease into four stages based on the extent of the disease and the involvement of organs and lymph nodes.

• Stage I: The cancer is limited to one lymph node region or one organ outside the lymph nodes.
• Stage II: The cancer is in two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm or the cancer has extended from a lymph node region into a nearby organ.
• Stage III: The cancer is in lymph node regions on both sides of the diaphragm.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to several parts of one or more organs other than the lymph nodes.

Each stage can also be classified as A or B. 'A' means the patient does not have symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or night sweats. 'B' means the patient has one or more of these symptoms.

Classification of Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma

Systemic ALCL is classified into two types based on the presence or absence of a protein called anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK).

• ALK-positive systemic ALCL: This type is more common in children and younger adults. It tends to grow faster but responds well to treatment.
• ALK-negative systemic ALCL: This type is more common in older adults. It grows more slowly but is harder to treat.

The classification is important because it helps doctors determine the prognosis and choose the most effective treatment plan.

Phases of Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma

The phases of Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma can be divided into three main stages: diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment.

• Diagnosis: This phase involves the detection and staging of the disease. It includes physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsy.
• Treatment: This phase involves the administration of therapies to eliminate the cancer cells. It may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplant.
• Post-treatment: This phase involves monitoring for any signs of recurrence and managing any long-term side effects of treatment. It includes regular follow-up appointments and health maintenance.

Want to Learn More About Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma?

Keep reading HealthTree for Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma's 101 pages!

• What Is Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma?
• How Is Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma?
• What Are Treatments For Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma?