Subtitle Forum: Is Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma an aggressive form of cancer?
Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that is usually considered an aggressive form of cancer. It is an uncommon form of NHL, accounting for only about 3 percent of all cases. AITL affects the lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs in the body, and it can sometimes spread to the bone marrow and other organs.
AITL is caused by an overgrowth of T cells, a type of white blood cell, which then crowd out other cells in the body. This overgrowth of T cells can lead to a variety of symptoms, including swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss. AITL can also be associated with other medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, skin diseases, and infections.
AITL is usually treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. In some cases, a stem cell transplant may also be used. The prognosis for AITL varies depending on the stage of the disease and the overall health of the patient. In general, the earlier that AITL is caught and treated, the better the prognosis.
Although AITL is considered an aggressive form of cancer, many people with AITL can live for years with proper treatment. With advances in treatment, many people with AITL are able to achieve long-term remission and lead a normal life.