Hodgkin Lymphoma

Why choose us for Hodgkin Lymphoma care?

What you need to know about Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma, also known as Hodgkin’s disease, is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a key part of the body’s immune system. It’s characterized by the presence of a specific type of abnormal cell called Reed-Sternberg cells.

How to talk to your doctor about Hodgkin Lymphoma

  1. Prepare Questions:

    • Before your appointment, write down any questions or concerns you have about Hodgkin lymphoma.
    • Include inquiries about diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis.

  2. Be Open and Honest:

    • Share your symptoms, medical history, and family history with your doctor.
    • Express any fears or preferences you have regarding treatment and care.

  3. Take Notes:

    • Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down important information during the appointment.
    • Write down test names, treatment options, medications, and any instructions or recommendations from your doctor.

  4. Ask for Explanation:

    • Request explanations in simple terms for any medical jargon, test results, or treatment options that you don’t understand.
    • Seek clarification on anything that is unclear or if you need more information to make decisions.

  5. Discuss Treatment Options:

    • Explore different treatment options with your doctor, including their benefits, risks, and potential side effects.
    • Inquire about expected outcomes and how treatments may affect your quality of life.

  6. Involve Supportive Individuals:

    • Consider bringing a family member or friend to provide support and help remember important details.
    • Encourage them to ask questions and participate in the discussion if desired.

  7. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments:

    • Arrange follow-up appointments as needed to monitor progress, discuss treatment responses, and address new symptoms or concerns.
    • Stay engaged in your care and maintain open communication with your healthcare team throughout your treatment journey.

By following these points, you can have a productive conversation with your doctor about Hodgkin lymphoma and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.

  • Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (cHL):
    • Most common type, accounting for about 95% of cases.
    • Subtypes include Nodular Sclerosis, Mixed Cellularity, Lymphocyte-Rich, and Lymphocyte-Depleted Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma (NLPHL):
    • Rare form, accounting for about 5% of cases.
    • Characterized by large lymphocytes known as “popcorn cells.”
  • Genetic Factors:
    • Family history of Hodgkin lymphoma or certain genetic mutations may increase risk.
  • Infections:
    • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), HIV, and HTLV-1 are linked to higher risk.
  • Immune System Dysfunction:
    • Abnormalities in the immune system may contribute to development.
  • Environmental Factors:
    • Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins might elevate risk.
  • Other Risk Factors:
    • Age (more common in young adults and older adults), gender (slightly more common in males), and certain autoimmune diseases or immunodeficiency disorders.
  • Enlarged Lymph Nodes:
    • Painless swelling in neck, armpits, or groin.
  • Fever:
    • Unexplained, persistent or recurrent fever.
  • Night Sweats:
    • Excessive sweating during sleep.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss:
    • Significant weight loss without trying.
  • Itching (Pruritus):
    • Persistent, unexplained itching.
  • Fatigue:
    • Constant tiredness and lack of energy.
  • Other Symptoms:
    • Chest pain, coughing, or difficulty breathing (if the disease affects the chest area).
    • Abdominal pain or swelling (if it affects abdominal organs).
  • Medical History and Physical Exam:
    • Review of symptoms and physical check for enlarged lymph nodes.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • CT scans, MRI, PET scans to determine disease extent.
  • Biopsy:
    • Removal and microscopic examination of lymph node tissue to identify Reed-Sternberg cells.
  • Bone Marrow Biopsy:
    • May be performed to see if the disease has spread to the bone marrow.
  • Blood Tests:
    • Assess overall health, blood cell counts, and check for infections.
  • Staging:
    • Determines the extent and spread of the lymphoma.
  • Chemotherapy:
    • Primary treatment involving powerful drugs to kill cancer cells.
  • Radiation Therapy:
    • High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells, often used in combination with chemotherapy.
  • Immunotherapy:
    • Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, involving drugs like monoclonal antibodies.
  • Stem Cell Transplant:
    • For relapsed or refractory cases, involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
  • Clinical Trials:
    • Provides access to new treatments and drugs.
  • Supportive Care:
    • Manages symptoms and side effects, including pain control and nutritional support.

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