Castleman’s Disease Signs and Symptoms
Castleman’s disease is a rare autoimmune disorder which affects the lymph nodes of the body. Castleman’s disease is characterized by an overgrowth of lymphatic cells. This makes it similar to lymphatic cancer or lymphoma, which is also characterized by a proliferation of lymphatic cells. Castleman’s disease is not considered to be cancerous, however. We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of Castleman’s disease below.
Also, we have information on diagnosis, supportive natural therapies, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Castleman’s Disease
- An enlarged lymph node on the side of your neck or in the underarm
- A feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Excessive sweating
- Anemia
- Nausea or vomiting
- Night sweats
Some people with Castleman’s disease have no symptoms at all. Unicentric Castleman’s disease is confined to one lymph node, whereas multicentric Castleman’s disease involves multipe lymph nodes and is considered to be much more serious, even life-threatening.
Diagnosis of Castleman’s Disease
A diagnosis of Castleman’s disease is confirmed through a tissue biopsy. This is necessary to differentiate Castleman’s disease from lymphoma. Castleman’s disease can occur to anyone, male or female, adults and children. The average age of onset is in the thirties and forties.
Books For People With Signs and Symptoms of Castleman’s Disease
Castleman’s disease: three case reports and a review of the literature.(Disease/Disorder overview)(Case study): An article from: Ear, Nose and Throat Journal James L. Newlon |
Multicentric castleman’s disease increasing in HIV.(Infectious Diseases)(Human Immunodeficiency Virus): An article from: Internal Medicine News Sharon Worcester |
Castleman’s DiseaseResources
General Patient Resources
- ICDO – International Castleman’s Disease Organization
An interactive and informative forum designed for the patient, family, friends and the clinician interested in expanding their knowledge of this rare auto-immune disorder.
http://www.castlemans.org/
- Castleman’s Disease Information
A patient’s account of his journey with Castleman’s Disease.
http://castlemansdisease.org/
Medical Resources
- Mayo Clinic
Information on Castleman’s Disease from the Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/castleman-disease/DS01000
- National Organization for Rare Disorders
A NORD Rare Disease Report Abstract. NORD’s full collection of reports on over 1200 rare diseases is available to subscribers
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/532/viewAbstract
- Medscape News
Abstract and Introduction, Case Report and Discussion of a young patient with Castleman’s Disease.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/410722_3