Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It causes abnormal growth of certain white blood cells called Reed-Sternberg cells. This disease mainly impacts the lymph nodes, leading to painless swelling in areas like the neck, armpits, or groin. People with this condition may experience symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. The disease can affect the body's ability to fight infections and may spread to other organs if untreated.

Hodgkin Lymphoma is a malignant lymphoma characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, abnormal multinucleated B cells. It arises from clonal proliferation of germinal center or post-germinal center B cells within the lymphatic system. The pathogenesis often involves dysregulated immune signaling and sometimes association with Epstein-Barr virus infection. Clinically, it presents with painless lymphadenopathy, systemic B symptoms (fever, night sweats, weight loss), and can progress to involve contiguous lymph node groups and extranodal sites. It is distinguished from non-Hodgkin lymphomas by its unique histology and clinical course. Early diagnosis and staging are critical for prognosis and treatment planning.