Ceruloplasmin in Hodgkin's disease.

In 56 patients with Hodgkin's disease different clinical and histological stages the activity of polyphenoloxidase was repeatedly examined in the course of the disease as an indicator of serum ceruloplasmin concentration. In untreated patients the ceruloplasmin concentration was on average twice as high as in healthy controls. Repeated examinations made in the course of the disease demonstrated a good correlation of the values with the clinical condition of the patient, with the exception of some terminal stages and conditions following repeated chemotherapy, when liver damage was expected. The decrease to control levels in the course of therapy indicated the onset of remission. In contrast, increased levels indicated progression of the disease and necessity of treatment prolongation. Excluding intercurrent infections, higher ceruloplasmin levels above those found at remission were a clear sign of the progression. The correlation of ceruloplasmin values and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (1 h) was highly significant. The diagnostic and prognostic value of ceruloplasmin and/or serum copper determination is discussed.