Hodgkin Lymphoma

Also known as: Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin disease, Hodgkin’s disease.

What is Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the body’s lymphatic system (immune system). The lymphatic system is a network of cells (nodes) connected by channels which collects, and filters fluid and foreign material from the body and at the same time produces cells (lymphocytes) which help protect the body from infections.

When the lymph nodes cells multiply without control they produce lymphomas. Because lymph cells/tissue are found everywhere in the body, lymphomas can be found throughout the body. There are two types of lymphomas: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin (NHL) lymphoma which can be separated by the type of abnormal white blood cell (lymphocyte) found.

What causes Hodgkin Lymphoma?

The exact cause of lymphomas is unknown, however a specific gene mutation in some families has been linked to Hodgkin lymphoma, as has a virus and some environmental  factors.

What are the symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma?

Usually the earliest sign of Hodgkin's lymphoma is an enlarged lymph node in the armpit, groin or neck. After that other nodes, the liver and the spleen become bigger. Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

What are Hodgkin Lymphoma care options?

Treatment depends on many different factors. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy is usually used to destroy the abnormal cells. If the cancer returns after these treatments, a stem cell transplant might be of potential benefit.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:13 PM