What does DHL mean in PHYSIOLOGY

Histiocytes are a type of immune cell that help fight off infections and foreign objects in the body. They normally reside in the lymph nodes and spleen, as well as other organs throughout the body. In Diffuse Histiocytic Leukemia, these cells become uncontrollably overactive and accumulate abnormally in the bone marrow and other organs.

Diagnosis of DHL can be challenging, since there are no specific symptoms associated with it. Doctors may use a combination of blood tests, physical examination, imaging scans and biopsy to detect abnormal levels of histiocytes in the bloodstream or elsewhere in the body. A diagnosis can then be confirmed with genetic testing.

Diffuse Histiocytic Leukemia has been successfully treated in many cases using chemotherapy or radiation therapy, however it can depend on how early it is caught and how advanced it is at detection. Treatment may also include targeted therapy drugs such as monoclonal antibodies or immunotherapy treatments depending on individual patient needs.

Potential side effects of treatment for DHL vary depending on the type of treatment chosen; however common side effects may include fatigue, hair loss, nausea and vomiting. Radiation therapy may also cause skin irritation at the site being treated due to its concentrated energy fields causing cellular damage along with an increased risk for developing secondary cancers later on down the line.

Alternative treatments for DHL typically involve enhancing nutrition through diet changes; incorporating herbal remedies; focusing on stress-relief techniques such as yoga, meditation and exercise; hormone therapy and acupuncture have also been reported to show some success when used alongside conventional methods like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.