Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a form of cancer that has its primary location in the white blood cells, which are known as lymphocytes. Incidence of this cancer falls within two peaks, with people between the ages of 15 and 40 having an increased incidence, as well as those who are past 55 years of age.

Symptoms

A number of different symptoms can appear in individuals with HL. Of course, one case may show different medical signs than the next. Also, not having one of these does not mean that a person does not have Hodgkin lymphoma, as it could be present in the individual despite a current lack of noticeable symptoms. Additionally, since these can be caused by other reasons, they don't inherently indicate that someone does have HL.

The person may experience night sweats. Weight loss that is unexplained can also point to a case of Hodgkin lymphoma. The liver, or it along with the spleen, may be enlarged. Petechiae, or small red/purple spots under the skin brought on by minor hemorrhages, can show up. Enlargement of one or multiple lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) can also be present.

Risk factors

What causes Hodgkin lymphoma is presently unknown. However, there are some factors that seem to be common amongst those with higher incidence of this cancer. As mentioned before, there are two peaks age-wise in the occurrence of HL. Family history seems to be linked to it in some way. Males are more prone to developing this cancer. One of the other factors that seems to be involved is a weakened immune system.

Diagnosis

Certain differential diagnoses may need to be made when HL is suspected. For instance, there are other medical reasons for lymphadenopathy, so the possibility of non-cancer causes of swollen lymph nodes might be checked. Additionally, other types of cancer may be affecting a person, rather than Hodgkin lymphoma. Biopsy of a lymph node may be used. Certain scanning methods, such as tomography, might be employed. A doctor or other professional in the medical field is the one to perform and analyze diagnostic processes and their results.

Treatment

The type of treatment used depends on several factors. For instance, in patients with early stage Hodgkin lymphoma, chemotherapy or radiation therapy might be used. Those with this kind of cancer in its later stages are generally treated only with chemotherapy. In general, the prognosis is a greater than 90 percent 10-year survival rate.

Read about other swollen lymph node causes, or return home for general lymphadenopathy information.