Hodgkin’s Disease
Hodgkin’s Disease or Hodgkin's Lymphoma, less severe form of two types of cancer that arise in the lymphatic system (network of small vessels that carry lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells of the immune system ). The other form is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Hodgkin's disease is characterized by usually painless but progressive enlargement of lymph nodes (or glands) and other lymphoid tissue. Diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease is made with a biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope). Hodgkin's disease is primarily distinguished from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, large cells that contain several nuclei. If the disease is diagnosed at an early stage and has not metastasized (spread to other areas of the body), radiation therapy is commonly used. With advanced cases, the doctor will usually prescribe chemotherapy (anti-cancer drugs) for approximately six months, often in combination with radiation