What is Enteropathy Type T Cell Lymphoma?
Enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma (EATL) is a group of rare intestinal T cell malignancies (cancer) that involve tumour cell infiltration (penetration/colonization) of the intestinal epithelium. It is also named as enteropathy type T-cell lymphoma. It is a rapidly growing T cell lymphoma. Most commonly, it develops in the middle part of the small intestine named jejunum while it may affect other parts of the small intestine and colon (large intestine).
Disease Epidemiology
The mean age for the development of enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma is 50 to 60 years. It is more prevalent (common) in males as compared to females, and among the population of Northern European descent due to its higher association with the celiac disease (gluten sensitivity).
Disease Etiology
Enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma may or may not associate with the celiac disease (gluten sensitivity), but In most cases, it is associated with the celiac disease (gluten sensitivity). There is a high risk of development of enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma, in individuals who have gluten sensitivity and are not strictly adherent to a gluten-free diet or have poor compliance with a gluten-free diet.
- Causes and risk factors of enteropathy associated T-cell lymphoma are;
- A genetic predisposition towards enteropathy associated T-cell lymphoma
- Complications of celiac disease.
Sign and Symptoms
Common sign and symptoms are:
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Few cases also present with the Intestinal perforation( ulceration or a hole in the intestine)
- Few cases also present with the intestinal obstruction( blockage)
Diagnosis
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis.
- Endoscopy (direct visualization of the body parts like esophagus, stomach, and intestines through an endoscope).
- Diagnosis is made through the histological (the study of the type and structures of the tissue and cells) examination of the resected part (malignant part of the intestine which is cut/removed during the surgery) of the intestine.
- Serological (examination of blood serum) test for IgA ant-tissue transglutaminase, IgA, and IgG anti-gliadin antibodies (antibodies produced in response to gliadin a substance found in wheat).
Treatment
Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy radiotherapy, and autologous stem cell transplantation. Treatment recommendations vary according to the staging of the lymphoma /malignancy and general health condition of the patient.
What Support can we Give for Enteropathy Type T Cell Lymphoma?
Enteropathy Type T Cell Lymphoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Enteropathy Type T Cell Lymphoma we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
