What is Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma?
Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma is an uncommon type of blood cancer that usually develops from the dendritic cells of the lymph nodes. Dendritic cells are antigen-presenting cells, those cells of the immune system that represent foreign bodies or harmful pathogens to the disease-killing cells of the immune system.What are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small glands in the human body that filter lymph. Lymph is a clear fluid that circulates in the body through the lymphatic system. The lymph nodes of the lymphatic system help to fight against various infections.Disease Etiology
There is no well-known cause. However, clinical and biological studies show that there is a strong link between castle man’s disease and the development of follicular dendritic cell sarcoma. Castle man’s disease is a condition in which benign (non-malignant) growths or tumors develop in the lymph nodes. There is also a link between Epstein-Barr virus infection and the development of sarcoma of follicular dendritic cells of the liver and spleen.Disease Epidemiology
It is rare cancer. The average age at development of follicular dendritic cell sarcoma is 5th decade, but cases of follicular dendritic cell sarcoma have also been reported in children.Signs and symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Slowly growing painless mass or growth
- High-grade fever
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Imaging studies such as X-ray, CT-scan, and MRI to detect the site, size, and extent of the metastasis (spread of the tumor)
- CT chest, the scan of bones, and PET-Scan to assess the areas and spread of the tumor
- Lymph node biopsy / Tumor biopsy
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are the main treatment options.What Support can we Give for Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma?
Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma 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 Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma 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!You can help us with your donation:
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:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
