Hodgkin lymphoma is cancer that begins in the lymph system in white blood cells called lymphocytes. When these cells become abnormal, they grow without control and may form lumps of tissue called tumors.

The most common type of Hodgkin lymphoma is called classical Hodgkin lymphoma. The cancerous tumors (lymphomas) in classical Hodgkin lymphoma contain Reed-Sternberg cells. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas don’t have these cells.

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include enlargement of the lymph nodes, fever, appetite loss, weight loss, and night sweats.

Hodgkin lymphoma affects men more often than women. The cause of Hodgkin lymphoma is not known.

Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma depends on the stage of the lymphoma and may include radiation or chemotherapy.