The nurse reviews test results for a client and notes that the lymph node biopsy shows the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. The nurse knows this finding is indicative of which condition?

Choice A reason: Enlargement of the spleen is not a common sign of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but it may occur in some cases. It is more likely to be associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or Hodgkin lymphoma.

Choice B reason: Confusion and agitation are not typical symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but they may indicate central nervous system involvement or metabolic disturbances. They are more common in patients with brain tumors or infections.

Choice C reason: Frequent respiratory infections are a possible manifestation of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as the disease affects the immune system and makes the client more susceptible to infections. The respiratory tract is one of the most common sites of infection in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Choice D reason: Painful lesions of the lips and oral mucosa are not characteristic of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but they may be caused by other conditions such as herpes simplex virus, aphthous ulcers, or oral cancer. They are more common in patients with immunodeficiency or poor oral hygiene.

Choice A reason: Initiates the fibrinolytic process in the arteries is not a role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis, but a protective mechanism against it. Fibrinolysis is the breakdown of blood clots by enzymes such as plasmin. It prevents the formation of thrombi that can occlude the arteries and cause ischemia.

Choice B reason: Decreases highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels is not a role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis, but an indicator of it. hsCRP is a marker of systemic inflammation that is produced by the liver in response to cytokines. It is elevated in patients with atherosclerosis and correlates with the risk of cardiovascular events.

Choice C reason: Damages the endothelium of the arteries is the main role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis. Endothelial injury exposes the subendothelial layer to the blood, which triggers the adhesion of monocytes and platelets. Monocytes differentiate into macrophages and engulf oxidized low-density lipoproteins (LDL), forming foam cells. Foam cells accumulate in the intima and form fatty streaks, which are the earliest lesions of atherosclerosis.

Choice D reason: Causes diffuse arterial vasoconstriction is not a role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis, but a consequence of it. Atherosclerosis narrows the lumen of the arteries and reduces the blood flow to the tissues. This causes ischemia, which stimulates the release of vasoconstrictors such as angiotensin II and endothelin. Vasoconstriction further worsens the ischemia and increases the blood pressure.