What do you know about histiocytic disorders? You probably don’t know much, if anything. September is Histiocytosis Awareness month. It’s a good time to learn more about these disorders that involve an overproduction of white blood cells that lead to tumors and damaged organs.

There are three groups comprising the different histiocytic disorders and diseases. With this wide range of disorders and diseases, a lot of misinformation is also present. Don’t fall for these five myths regarding histiocytosis.

#1 – Seniors are safe from these diseases.

Some of the types of histiocytic disorders and diseases are more prevalent in children. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is typically found in infants and children. While the majority of cases, approximately 1 case for every 1 million children per the Histiocytosis Association, the disorder can appear at any age. Erdheim-Chester is diagnosed in middle age typically. The Histiocytosis Association states the average age at onset is 53.

#2 – Only unhealthy adults develop histiocytosis.

In the numerous studies that have been performed, there is nothing to indicate that only the unhealthy are affected by histiocytosis. One form, pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis does seem to be more prevalent in smokers. Erdheim-Chester and Rosai-Dorfman, however, do not have a known cause.

#3 – Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a form of cancer.

Due to gene mutations, some people wondered if Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare form of cancer. While it does seem to share similarities, research released by the Histiocyte Society Scientific Community debunk that theory. They feel that it’s not a form of cancer since there are only a few mutated cells found in Langerhans cell histiocytosis lesions.

#4 – Diabetes insipidus is just another form of diabetes.

There are similarities between diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus. Both lead to excessive thirst and increased urination. That’s where the similarities end. Diabetes insipidus is caused by poor production of the antidiuretic hormones in the pituitary gland. Diabetes mellitus, the type that most people know, is due improper insulin production within the pancreas.

Does Your Parent Have a Histiocytic Disorder?

While all histiocytic disorders are rare, if your parent is diagnosed with one, you might be scared for the outcome. As Erdheim-Chester disease is the form that most middle-aged men and women are diagnosed as having, you should be prepared for the symptoms that include excessive thirst, fatigue, back pain, and issues with coordination.

To help your parent manage activities of daily living, hire a senior care professional. Your mom or dad may be unsteady when walking up stairs or getting out of bed. A caregiver can help with mobility. Meal preparation, laundry, and light housework can also help a parent who has a histiocytic disorder. Call a senior care agency to learn more about services and prices.

Sources:
https://www.histio.org/hemophagocyticsyndromes#.WaV69yiGOM8
https://www.histio.org/page.aspx?pid=403#.WaV6sCiGOM8
https://histio.org/feb-2015/news/is-lch-a-cancer#HSstatement

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Professional Senior Care in Boca Raton, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff at Assisting Hands Home Care at 561­-829­-3080 Today.