Hodgkin's vs. non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Major Differences

With two identical-sounding names, Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (nHL) can easily be confused. Medical and health specialists are able to determine non-Hodgkin’s from Hodgkin’s lymphoma (formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease) by examining the leukocytes or leucocytes (WBCs) affected by the disease. 

Lymphoma is a form of disease that mainly affects the lymphocytes, a sort of WBC that plays a crucial role in the immune system. The prime difference between these two categories of lymphatic disease is the type of lymphocyte that is affected.

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is marked by the existence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which a healthcare specialist can spot using a microscope. Although, in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (nHL), these cells do not exist.

In addition to the existence or lack of Reed-Sternberg cells, certain other differences between Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma include that:

Lymphoma's both forms are relatively rare. The non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (nHL) is considered the more common type of lymphoma. There are approximately 70,000 new cases per year in the US. Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL), although, is even a bit more rare in comparison to non-Hodgkin’s. Nationwide, there are around only 8,000 new cases per year.

The majority of patients with non-Hodgkin are aged over 55 when first diagnosed, whereas the median age for diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma is 39.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (nHL) may arise in lymph nodes of any portion of the body, whereas Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) typically develops in the upper body, such as the neck, chest or armpits.

Apart from the several differences between these a couple of types of lymphatic disease, both have identical symptoms, such as fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes, weight loss and fever. In case you experience any of these signs and symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.

Available Treatment Options: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and hodgkin's lymphoma treatment will depend on the type of lymphatic cancer you have, its stages, overall health and certain other factors. 

In both Hodgkin (HL) and non Hodgkin lymphoma (nHL), existing treatments are one of the most advanced and efficacious for cancer. Treatment for both these diseases can range from observation only, to chemotherapy (vincristine), targeted therapy (brentuximab vedotin), immunotherapy and most recently cellular therapy.