Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma which is also referred to as Hodgkin disease, is a type of lymphoma - a term used for cancer of the lymphatic system.^1,2 It is named after the doctor who first discovered the disease.²

The lymphatic system is made up of organs, vessels and tissues and some its more notable functions include:³

• Maintain fluid balance
• Absorption and transport of dietary fat
• Production of immune cells to help fight infections – especially adaptive immunity

The lymphatic system contains white blood cells called lymphocytes.³ Hodgkin lymphoma starts in these lymphocytes and causes abnormal lymphocytes, which typically reside in the lymph glands.^1,2

Hodgkin lymphoma is less common than non-Hodgkin lymphoma; non-Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for approximately 90% of lymphoma cases.⁴

A range of tests may be performed to analyse symptoms, to diagnose Hodgkin lymphoma, and the disease stage.² Following a physical examination which may include an assessment of any swelling in lymph nodes in the neck, underarm and groin, further tests may include:^2,7

• Blood tests 
  
• Imaging tests - These may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, ultrasound, or a positron emission tomography (PET) scan of the body to check for tumours and if they have metastasised
• Biopsy - Is considered to be the most common test for Hodgkin lymphoma. Some of the tissue from an enlarged lymph node is removed for analysis
• Bone marrow biopsy - On occasion a bone marrow biopsy may be performed to analyse whether there are any cancerous cells present in the bone marrow

Treatment recommended for Hodgkin lymphoma usually depends on a number of factors including overall health, age, type, and disease stage. Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma can include:²

• Chemotherapy
  
• Radiation therapy

These options are often recommended with the aim being to help improve the results. Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you.

Other treatments may include:²

• Immunotherapy 
• Stem cell or bone marrow transplant 
• Steroids
• Targeted therapy

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be emotional and life changing.¹¹ It’s natural to feel disbelief, shock, anxiety, sadness, anger and loneliness.¹² Our care team will aim to know your name and get to know who you are as a person. Your nursing team and oncology team are here to support you before, during and after your cancer treatment. We are here to guide you and to help get the support you need which may include a psychologist, exercise physiologist, physiotherapist, and dietitian.

If you have any enquiries about our centres or services, please contact your local centre team. You are able to view a list of our centres here.

Other Hodgkin lymphoma information, resources and support services are available to assist you during your cancer journey.

These include: