Hodgkin lymphoma (Hodgkin disease)

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Hodgkin lymphoma (also called Hodgkin disease) affects lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes are part of the immune system that help our bodies fight infection.

Hodgkin lymphoma can start anywhere in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system — made up of a network of vessels, tissues and organs — makes white blood cells and moves lymph around the body.

Hodgkin lymphoma often starts in the lymph nodes in the upper body, such as in the chest, neck or underarms. It can spread to other lymph nodes and throughout the lymphatic system.

There are two main types of Hodgkin lymphoma:

  • classic Hodgkin lymphoma
  • nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma.

Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in older children and teenagers than in young children.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a different type of lymphoma that children can get.