There are two categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both are blood cancers of the immune system, specifically the lymphocyte cells, including those found in the lymph nodes and vessels, spleen, thymus, tonsils, and bone marrow. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma vary in behavior, treatment reaction, and how each spread.
Hodgkin lymphoma, or Hodgkin disease, was named after Dr. Thomas Hodgkin, who was the first to discover and describe it. Hodgkin disease frequently moves through the lymph system from lymph node to lymph node. Because the lymph system is spread throughout the body, Hodgkin lymphoma can originate almost anywhere, most often in the chest, neck, or underarms. Rarely, in its late stages, the disease may also use the bloodstream as a means for spreading to other parts of the body, including the liver, spleen, lungs, and bone marrow. Hodgkin lymphoma can occur in both adults and children.
A few risk factors increase the risk of Hodgkin lymphoma; however, many people who are diagnosed may have few or no risk factors. Potential risk factors include:
The following may be symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma but could be linked to other health conditions. If the following symptoms are present, individuals are encouraged to consult their physician. A symptom particular to Hodgkin lymphoma is alcohol sensitivity, or pain in the lymph nodes after consuming alcohol. Potential symptoms include:
There is no known prevention for Hodgkin lymphoma.
Hodgkin lymphoma is highly treatable, especially in young patients. Depending on the stage and type, treatment options can vary and may involve one or more members of the cancer care team – hematologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Treatment options may be tailored based on the type of Hodgkin lymphoma, stage, location, symptoms, age, the patient’s overall health, possible side effects of the treatment, and the patient’s preferences. Treatment can include steroid therapy, chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, monoclonal antibody therapy, immunotherapy, radiation, proton therapy, or a combination of treatments.
Sources: American Cancer Society, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, National Cancer Institute, and Texas Cancer Registry
