What is the difference between Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma has Reed-Sternberg cells and tends to spread in an orderly pattern. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a broader category of 60+ types and can spread more unpredictably.

Many forms are curable. Hodgkin lymphoma has an 80–90% cure rate. Aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphomas are also often curable. Indolent lymphomas may not be cured but can be managed for many years.

Can swollen lymph nodes be cancer?

Most swollen lymph nodes are from common infections and are not cancer. However, painless nodes persisting more than 2 weeks, growing progressively, or accompanied by systemic symptoms should be evaluated.

CancerICD-10: C81-C85About 89,000 new cases of lymphoma diagnosed annually in the U.S.

Lymphoma

Also known as: Hodgkin Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Lymphatic Cancer

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma (with Reed-Sternberg cells) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (a broader, more diverse group). Many forms are highly treatable, with Hodgkin lymphoma having one of the highest cure rates of any cancer.

At a Glance

Common symptoms: Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, Persistent fatigue, Unexplained fever
Main treatments: Chemotherapy (ABVD for Hodgkin; R-CHOP for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma), Radiation therapy, Immunotherapy (rituximab, brentuximab vedotin, checkpoint inhibitors)
Category: Cancer · About 89,000 new cases of lymphoma diagnosed annually in the U.S.
See a doctor if: Painless, swollen lymph node persisting more than 2 weeks

Symptoms

Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin

Persistent fatigue

Unexplained fever

Drenching night sweats

Unexplained weight loss (>10% in 6 months)

Itchy skin without visible rash

Shortness of breath or cough if chest nodes are enlarged

Loss of appetite

Causes

Genetic mutations in lymphocytes
Epstein-Barr virus infection associated with some types
Immune suppression (HIV, post-transplant immunosuppression)
H. pylori associated with gastric MALT lymphoma

Risk Factors

Weakened immune system
Prior Epstein-Barr virus infection (for Hodgkin lymphoma)
Age (Hodgkin peaks in young adults and over 55; non-Hodgkin increases with age)
Family history of lymphoma
Autoimmune conditions
Exposure to certain pesticides

Diagnosis

Excisional lymph node biopsy
Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry
PET-CT scan for staging
Bone marrow biopsy
Blood tests including LDH, CBC, and ESR

Treatment

Chemotherapy (ABVD for Hodgkin; R-CHOP for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma)
Radiation therapy
Immunotherapy (rituximab, brentuximab vedotin, checkpoint inhibitors)
CAR-T cell therapy for relapsed disease
Stem cell transplant for relapsed disease
Watchful waiting for indolent lymphomas

Prevention

No known way to prevent most lymphomas
Reduce HIV risk through safe practices
Treat H. pylori to prevent gastric MALT lymphoma

When to See a Doctor

Painless, swollen lymph node persisting more than 2 weeks
Unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss
Persistent fatigue or itching without identifiable cause
A known lymph node enlargement is growing

Frequently Asked Questions

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