The spleen is another important organ that processes lymphocytes from incoming blood. Hodgkin's Disease Biologic Process Leading to Hodgkin's Disease. B-cells that do not develop such matches die off. Reed-Sternberg cells develop. The mutated genes observed in these cells are very flawed, although these B-cells not only survive but are immortal and perpetually reproducing, causing most of the malignant conditions known as Hodgkin's disease.
Researchers are unable to completely explain why so few cells can cause such severe symptoms.
These cytokines produce inflammation that can cause local pain, fever, and other symptoms typical of Hodgkin's disease. The dominance of different kinds of cytokines may also explain why Hodgkin's disease takes different forms. Factors the Trigger the Process. Experts believe that the malignant process leading to Hodgkin's disease is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors along with a susceptible immune system. The exact triggers, however, are unknown.