What's the difference between Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are types of a cancer called lymphoma. Lymphoma begins in white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are an important part of the body's germ-fighting immune system.

The main difference between Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma is in the specific lymphocyte each involves. Hodgkin lymphoma usually arises from B lymphocytes. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas can arise from B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes or natural killer cells.

Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are defined by the type of cell involved, which can be seen by looking at the cancer cells under a microscope. If a specific type of cell called a Reed-Sternberg cell is seen, the lymphoma is classified as Hodgkin. If the Reed-Sternberg cell is not present, the lymphoma is classified as non-Hodgkin.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma. However, non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be less curable and often has a worse prognosis. Some non-Hodgkin lymphomas behave like chronic conditions because they may relapse over many years.

The cause of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma is unclear. However, they have similar risk factors. These may include family history of lymphoma and some infections. Both types may be linked to autoimmune diseases, though non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more strongly linked.

The symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can be the same. Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss without trying and swollen lymph nodes. Hodgkin lymphoma often starts in the lymph nodes in the neck, chest, groin and armpits. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can start in the lymph nodes and often is found outside of the lymph nodes.

Treatments for Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be similar. Chemotherapy often is used to treat lymphoma, though the rounds may be different depending on the type you have. Other treatments may include radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and others.

Your type of lymphoma helps determine your prognosis and your treatment options. An accurate diagnosis is an essential part of getting the care you need.

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Sept. 19, 2025 See more Expert Answers

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  2. Alternative cancer treatments: 11 options to consider
  3. Biological therapy for cancer
  4. Biopsy procedures
  5. Blood Cancers and Disorders
  6. Bone marrow biopsy
  7. Bone marrow transplant
  8. Cancer treatment
  9. Chemo targets
  10. Chemotherapy
  11. Chemotherapy and hair loss: What to expect during treatment
  12. Chemotherapy and sex: Is sexual activity OK during treatment?
  13. Chemotherapy nausea and vomiting: Prevention is best defense
  14. CT scan
  15. Fatigue
  16. Hodgkin lymphoma (Hodgkin disease)
  17. What is lymphoma? An expert explains
  18. Lymphoma FAQs
  19. Magic mouthwash
  20. MRI
  21. Night sweats
  22. PALS (Pets Are Loving Support)
  23. Positron emission tomography scan
  24. Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC)
  25. Radiation therapy
  26. Seeing inside the heart with MRI
  27. Sisters' Bone Marrow Transplant
  28. Stem cells: What they are and what they do
  29. Swollen lymph nodes
  30. Targeted drug therapy
  31. Unexplained weight loss
  32. Stem cell transplant
  33. MRI
  34. X-ray