What is hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that begins in part of the immune system (the lymph system). White blood cells called lymphocytes can become abnormal or increase in number and grow without control. They may form lumps of tissue called tumors, usually in the lymph nodes of the neck, armpits, or chest.

Like other cancers, Hodgkin can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. To find out how severe your cancer is, your doctor will classify it by type and stage.

Hodgkin is a very curable cancer compared to other cancers. But treatment success depends on your gender, the type of Hodgkin you have, its stage, and your age when you are diagnosed.

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, a fever, weight loss, and night sweats.

Your doctor will ask you about your and your family's medical history and will do a physical exam. You may also get:

• Lab tests, including a complete blood count, to check the number of white and red blood cells.
• A biopsy. The doctor may remove part or all of a lymph node to check for cancer. A biopsy is the only sure way to know if you have the cancer.
• A PET scan, a CT scan, or a PET-CT scan.
• Other tests, as needed.

Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma depends on what type of lymphoma you have, the stage of the cancer, and other things, such as your overall health. Treatment options may include:

Chemotherapy.

This is the main treatment. These medicines kill fast-growing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells.

Radiation therapy.

This uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Stem cell transplant.

This replaces damaged cells with healthy stem cells. They help your bone marrow make healthy blood cells.

Immunotherapy.

This treatment helps your immune system fight cancer. It may be given in several ways.

Targeted therapy.

These medicines target cancer cells and may cause less harm to normal cells. They help keep cancer from growing or spreading.

Your doctor will talk with you about your options and then make a treatment plan.

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Eat healthy food. If you do not feel like eating, try to eat food that has protein and extra calories to keep up your strength and prevent weight loss.
• Get some physical activity every day, but do not get too tired.
• Get enough sleep and take time to do things you enjoy. This can help reduce stress.
• Think about joining a support group. Or discuss your concerns with your doctor, counselor, or other health professional.
• If you are vomiting or have diarrhea:
  • Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Choose water and other clear liquids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
  • When you are able to eat, try clear soups, mild foods, and liquids until all symptoms are gone for 12 to 48 hours. Other good choices include dry toast, crackers, cooked cereal, and gelatin dessert, such as Jell-O.
• If you have not already done so, prepare a list of advance directives. Advance directives are instructions to your doctor and family members about what kind of care you want if you become unable to speak or express yourself.