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Lymphoma: a heterogeneous group of malignancies generally divided into non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin disease. NHL is about 85% of lymphomas. Median age at diagnosis is sixth decade. Some forms of NHL - such as Burkitt lymphoma and lymphoblastic lymphoma - occur in younger patients. Classified by several different systems (e.g., Working Formulation, REAL classification) based on morphology and clinical behavior. Variety of laboratory and imaging studies are used to evaluate and stage NHL. Treatment depends on stage, grade, type and various patient factors (symptoms, age, etc.). NHL may result from: chromosomal translocations; infections (Epstein-Barr virus [EBV] and hepatitis C virus); environmental factors (radiation exposure and chemotherapy); immunodeficiency states; and chronic inflammation. Clinical presentation depends on location of disease and biologic characteristics (e.g., low grade vs. high grade). Peripheral adenopathy and B symptoms (fever, night sweats, weight loss) are characteristic for some forms of NHL. Hodgkin lymphoma: has histologic findings, biologic behavior, and clinical characteristics distinct from NHL. Excisional lymph node biopsy generally recommended to establish diagnosis. Various imaging studies used to determine disease stage. Lymphadenopathy and constitutional B symptoms are characteristic. Treated with multiagent chemotherapy, plus or minus radiation therapy. Etiology of Hodgkin lymphoma has not been established. Certain infectious agents, e.g. EBV, may be involved. HIV infected patients have a higher incidence. Genetic predisposition may also play a role.
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