Hodgkin (pronounced huk-kin) lymphoma is cancer that affects the lymphocytes, the white blood cells that fight infections. This cancer starts in lymphocytes, which are normally found in the lymph nodes and other lymph tissues throughout the body. Hodgkin lymphoma develops when lymphocytes grow abnormally and multiply out of control, forming tumors that can spread into surrounding tissue and interfere with normal body functions.
Thomas Hodgkin (1836–1905) was a British physician and social reformer. He was one of the first to describe and name a form of cancer that later became known as Hodgkin disease. He helped organize the medical school at Guy’s Hospital in London and created a collection of pathologic specimens that became one of the finest of its kind in England. Hodgkin lectured and studied extensively, and he made important contributions to science and education. He also worked on behalf of underprivileged and oppressed peoples around the world.
The name of Hodgkin disease honors him and his work. Hodgkin was born in a small village in Norfolk, England, and died in Palestine. He had a profound influence on the world of medicine, and his legacy continues to this day.
In 1832, Hodgkin published an article describing postmortem examinations of patients with enlarged lymph nodes and spleens. His research led him to discover that certain types of lymphocytes, called Reed-Sternberg cells, are abnormal and can cause the disease. These cells collect in parts of the lymphatic system, particularly the lymph nodes, and lead to a buildup that interferes with the lymphatic system’s ability to fight infection. Hodgkin disease is diagnosed when a person has Reed-Sternberg cells in the biopsy tissue.
A health care provider may suspect Hodgkin lymphoma based on a patient’s symptoms. These can include a fever or unintended weight loss, and swollen or tender lymph nodes that don’t go away. The provider will ask for a complete health history and do a physical exam, which includes checking the areas of the body where the lymph nodes are located. The provider will feel a swollen lymph node to see if it is firm and hard.
When Hodgkin lymphoma is diagnosed, further tests are done to find out how far the cancer has spread. The results help the doctor decide on treatment.
Several types of chemotherapy can be used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma. The most commonly used regimen is the combination of doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. This treatment is given in the hospital or outpatient facility and can be painful. It is usually followed by radiation therapy or other procedures. In some cases, the cancer may recur after treatment. If this happens, doctors can try high-dose chemotherapy or stem cell transplant to get rid of the cancer. These treatments are being studied to improve their effectiveness and safety. People who have Hodgkin lymphoma can find support groups to help them cope with the disease and its treatment. These groups can provide information about the latest treatment options and tips on managing side effects.
