Overview
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the immune system identified by the presence of the Reed–Sternberg cell, a hallmark seen on biopsy. It begins in B‑lymphocytes, the white blood cells responsible for producing antibodies.
Hodgkin lymphoma is highly treatable and often curable, with many patients achieving long‑term remission.
The disease is divided into two major types:
Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (CHL) – the most common form, characterized by Reed‑Sternberg cells.
Nodular Lymphocyte‑Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma (NLPHL) – a rarer form with “popcorn cells.”
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Lymph Node-Related Symptoms
Systematic (“B”) Symptoms
These help determine staging:
Miscellaneous Symptoms
Risk Factors
Risk factors for Hodgkin lymphoma put those in the following groups or with these ailments at an increased risk:
Age
common in early adulthood and again later in life.
Caucasian Men
(higher incidence)
Weakened immune system
(immune deficiency, HIV)
Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)
infection
Family history of Hodgkin lymphoma
Diagnosis
Diagnosis requires:
Excisional lymph node biopsy
preferred to ensure detection of Reed–Sternberg cells.
Complete history & physical
including B‑symptoms evaluation.
Laboratory tests
(CBC, chemistries).
Imaging
(CT, PET/CT) to assess disease extent.
Bone marrow biopsy
in selected cases.
Staging
Illinois CancerCare follows the traditional Ann Arbor lymphoma staging system:
Stage I
One lymph node region or one lymphatic structure involved.
Stage IE
Single site outside lymph system.
Stage II
Two or more lymph node groups same side of diaphragm.
Stage IIE
Lymph nodes + nearby organ.
Stage III
Involvement on both sides of diaphragm.
Stage IIIE / IIIS / IIIE,S
Organ involvement and/or spleen involvement.
Stage IV
Widespread organ involvement.
Standard Treatments
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs. It is important to note that Hodgkin lymphoma is highly curable with multimodal therapies, such as:
Prognosis & Outcomes
Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the most treatable cancers.
Survival has improved significantly due to targeted therapies, better risk stratification, and supportive care advances.
Treatment response is often rapid—B‑symptoms may improve within days of starting effective therapy.
Treatment response is often rapid—B‑symptoms may improve within days of starting effective therapy.
When To See Your Provider
Consult a provider if you notice:
Persistent swollen lymph nodes
Fevers, night sweats, or weight loss
Unexplained coughing or shortness of breath
Because Hodgkin Lymphoma is highly curable, early evaluation is crucial.
Why Choose Illinois CancerCare
A blood disorder diagnosis can feel overwhelming. At Illinois CancerCare, we are committed to ensuring you never have to face it alone. Providing advanced, comprehensive hematology and oncology care for our patients is at the heart of everything we do. Since 1977, our specialists have focused on individualized, evidence-based treatment plans, access to world-class clinical trials, and thorough follow-up. With Illinois CancerCare, you can move forward with confidence knowing trusted expertise and compassionate support are always close to home.‑based treatment plans, access to world‑class clinical trials, and thorough follow‑up.
See our Current Clinical Trials page for studies that may be available to you.
Sources & Patient Friendly References
Information sourced from Mayo Clinic and NCI (National Cancer Institute).