Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that begins in part of the immune system (the lymph system). White blood cells called lymphocytes can become abnormal or increase in number and grow without control. They may form lumps of tissue called tumors, usually in the lymph nodes of the neck, armpits, or chest. Like other cancers, Hodgkin can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. To find out how severe your cancer is, your doctor will classify it by type and stage. Hodgkin is a very curable cancer compared to other cancers. But treatment success depends on your gender, the type of Hodgkin you have, its stage, and your age when you are diagnosed. Experts don't know what causes Hodgkin lymphoma. But they do know that gene changes (mutations) occur in white blood cells called lymphocytes. These gene changes lead to cancer that affects the immune system and keeps it from working as it should. Some of the gene changes in Hodgkin lymphoma may be triggered by an abnormal reaction to an infection. Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, a fever, weight loss, and night sweats. Your doctor will ask you about your and your family's medical history and will do a physical exam. You may also get: Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma depends on what type of lymphoma you have, the stage of the cancer, and other things, such as your overall health. Treatment options may include: This is the main treatment. These medicines kill fast-growing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells. This uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. This replaces damaged cells with healthy stem cells. They help your bone marrow make healthy blood cells. This treatment helps your immune system fight cancer. It may be given in several ways. These medicines target cancer cells and may cause less harm to normal cells. They help keep cancer from growing or spreading. Your doctor will talk with you about your options and then make a treatment plan. Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Condition Basics
What is Hodgkin lymphoma?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is Hodgkin lymphoma treated?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.Hodgkin Lymphoma