Hodgkin's & Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: What's the Difference?

Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma may sound very similar which can easily be confused. Although both cancers affect adversely and spread through the body’s lymphatic system, there are some differences which affect the lymphoma cancer treatment options.

Let’s understand the difference between the two types of cancers and learn about the lymphatic system from the view point of the best oncologist in Delhi NCR:

Lymph is a watery fluid. It circulates through the body through a network of vessels, tissues and organs called the lymphatic system. Lymph carries a number of vital substances, including lymphocytes, that play a crucial role in the body’s immune system being important infection-fighting white blood cells
Amongst the many forms of cancer Lymphoma is the one which affects the lymphocytes. Hence, The basic difference between Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the type of lymphocyte that is affected. While Hodgkin’s lymphoma is marked by the presence of Reed-Sternberg lymphocytes, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not as these cells are not present. For identifying the disease for lymphoma cancer treatment a physician looks for the Reed-Sternberg lymphocytes using a microscope.

What are Reed-Sternberg cells?

They are large in size and structure and include multiple nuclei. Like the other types of cancer cells, they also multiply uncontrollably and collect in an abnormal way. Reed-Sternberg cells generally get collected at the lymph nodes in parts of the lymphatic system. Gradually, the buildup of these abnormal lymphocytes leads to tumour growth and interferes with the immunity system or body’s ability to fight off infection.
According to the best Oncologist in Delhi NCR, both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatments are one of the most advanced and efficacious for cancer. The lymphoma cancer treatment can range from just observation to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and most recently cellular therapy.

Some other differences!

• Although both types of cancers are relatively rare, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is more common than Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Whereas the median age for diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma is 39, non-Hodgkin patients are over the age of 55 when first diagnosed
• As per Cancer Specialist in Delhi NCR Non-Hodgkin, lymphoma may arise anywhere in the body in lymph nodes, whereas Hodgkin lymphoma typically begins in the upper body, such as the neck, chest or armpits.
• Hodgkin lymphoma tends to progress in a more predictable way than non-Hodgkin lymphoma, so it is easier to recognize and treat Hodgkin lymphoma.

• To differentiate, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma but both cancer types are more commonly noticed in men. 
• Hodgkin lymphoma is most common in ages 15 to 40 (young adults) and older adults over age 55 while non-Hodgkin lymphoma is typically diagnosed in adults over age 60.
• Each type of lymphoma has different subtypes, while Hodgkin lymphoma makes up 95% of Hodgkin lymphoma cases Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is divided into two subtypes: B-cell lymphoma or T-cell lymphoma making up 85% of all lymphoma diagnoses.
• Inflammation is a more common symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma.

How are the symptoms of Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin lymphoma different?

Despite many differences between these two types of lymphatic cancer, the symptoms still remain similar, such as:

• Enlarged lymph nodes are identified in the neck, armpits, or sometimes in the groin.
• Ongoing fatigue
• Fever 
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe itching

Cancer is gradually increasing in recent times, and the concern has been really serious. A professional diagnosis is however often done wrong and cancer remains unidentified in the patient’s body. To solve this serious issue we bring you the best Cancer Specialist in Delhi NCR, Dr Manish Singhal whose experience and expertise are mingled with top-notch technology for every cancer patient to get the right treatment. 

Negligence has no place when it comes to cancer. Treatment for Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma will depend on the type of lymphatic cancer you have, its stage, your overall health and many other factors. With Dr Manish Singhal, the best Lymphoma Cancer Doctor In Noida get individualized treatment plans that address your unique needs.