Castleman Disease: Symptoms & Signs

Castleman disease is a disorder characterized by abnormal enlargement of the lymph nodes, most commonly the lymph nodes located in the mediastinum (the area between the lungs). It is also referred to as angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia. There are two very different forms of Castleman disease. One form, found in 90% of cases, is localized and usually causes no symptoms. The more severe form of Castleman disease is a multicentric lymphadenopathy with progressive systemic signs and symptoms such as anemia and fever.

Signs and symptoms of the more severe form can include

• fever,
• unintended weight loss,
• fatigue,
• night sweats,
• nausea,
• an enlarged spleen,
• an enlarged liver, and
• nerve damage.

Cause of Castleman disease

Doctors do not understand the exact cause of Castleman disease. One rapidly progressive type of Castleman disease is associated with infection by the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8).

Other castleman disease symptoms and signs

• Anemia
• An Enlarged Liver
• An Enlarged Spleen
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Nausea
• Nerve Damage
• Night Sweats
• Unintended Weight Loss

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