Recognizing unusual manifestations of Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a rare malignancy of the lymphatic system that is curable in at least 80 % of patients. Although patients usually present with painless lymphadenopathy, a variety of systemic and organ-specific syndromes may also exist in relation to HL. These syndromes may develop before, during, or after the diagnosis of HL and may also indicate disease relapse. Most of these unusual disorders resolve with successful HL treatment but some may require adjunctive supportive therapies before a response is achieved. Oncologists should be familiar with these syndromes because early recognition may result in a more timely diagnosis of HL which may lead to improved outcomes.