Lymphoma – Hodgkin

Overview

What is Hodgkin’s disease?

Hodgkin’s disease is one of a group of cancers called lymphomas. Lymphoma is a general term for cancers that develop in the lymphatic system. Hodgkin’s disease, an uncommon lymphoma, accounts for less than 1 percent of all cases of cancer in this country. Other cancers of the lymphatic system are called non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas are the subject of another NCI booklet, What You Need To Know About™ Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

The lymphatic system is part of the body’s immune system. It helps the body fight disease and infection. The lymphatic system includes a network of thin lymphatic vessels that branch, like blood vessels, into tissues throughout the body. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, a colorless, watery fluid that contains infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes. Along this network of vessels are small organs called lymph nodes. Clusters of lymph nodes are found in the underarms, groin, neck, chest, and abdomen. Other parts of the lymphatic system are the spleen, thymus, tonsils, and bone marrow. Lymphatic tissue is also found in other parts of the body, including the stomach, intestines, and skin

Risk factors associated with Hodgkin’s disease

Scientists at hospitals and medical centers all across the country are studying Hodgkin’s disease. They are trying to learn more about what causes the disease and more effective methods of treatment.
At this time, the cause or causes of Hodgkin’s disease are not known, and doctors can seldom explain why one person gets this disease and another does not. It is clear, however, that Hodgkin’s disease is not caused by an injury, and it is not contagious; no one can “catch” this disease from another person.
By studying patterns of cancer in the population, researchers have found certain risk factors that are more common in people who get Hodgkin’s disease than in those who do not. However, most people with these risk factors do not get Hodgkin’s disease, and many who do get this disease have none of the known risk factors.

The following are some of the risk factors associated with this disease:

• Age/Sex — Hodgkin’s disease occurs most often in people between 15 and 34 and in people over the age of 55. It is more common in men than in women.
• Family History — Brothers and sisters of those with Hodgkin’s disease have a higher-than-average chance of developing this disease.
• Viruses — Epstein-Barr virus is an infectious agent that may be associated with an increased chance of getting Hodgkin’s disease

Treatment for Hodgkin’s disease

The doctor develops a treatment plan to fit each patient’s needs. Treatment for Hodgkin’s disease depends on the stage of the disease, the size of the enlarged lymph nodes, which symptoms are present, the age and general health of the patient, and other factors. (Treatment for children with Hodgkin’s disease is not discussed here. The Cancer Information Service and the other resources listed under “National Cancer Institute Information Resources” can provide up-to-date information about Hodgkin’s disease in children)

Getting a second opinion

Before starting treatment, patients may want a second opinion to confirm their diagnosis and treatment plan. Some insurance companies require a second opinion; others may cover a second opinion if the patient or doctor requests it.
There are a number of ways to find a doctor who can give a second opinion:

• The patient’s doctor may be able to suggest specialists to consult.
• The Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell callers about cancer treatment facilities, including cancer centers and other programs supported by the National Cancer Institute

Preparing for treatment

Many people with cancer want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. When a person is diagnosed with cancer, shock and stress are natural reactions. These feelings may make it difficult for people to think of everything they want to ask the doctor. Often, it helps to make a list of questions.