A guide to Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas: similarities and differences

Fiona Holdsworth1, Dominic Worku2, Alanna le Bretton2

  • 1Oncology Nurse Practitioner and Lecturer for Newcastle University.

British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|October 4, 2021
PubMed

Insights

This review compares Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, highlighting key differences in age of presentation and subtypes. Understanding these common hematology diagnoses is crucial for all healthcare professionals.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Oncology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • COVID-19 pandemic underscores the need for robust knowledge of cancer care.
  • Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are common hematological malignancies.
  • General practitioners and non-cancer specialists frequently encounter these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and compare Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • To inform healthcare professionals about the characteristics, prognostics, and treatment of these lymphomas.
  • To emphasize the importance of awareness for all health professionals, including nurses.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Comparative analysis of disease processes, symptoms, prognostics, and treatments.
  • Discussion of diagnostic investigations and age of presentation.

Main Results:

  • Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma share similarities in presentation and diagnostic investigations.
  • Significant differences exist in age of presentation and the number of subtypes.
  • Prognostics and treatment pathways also present notable contrasts.

Conclusions:

  • Awareness of lymphoma characteristics is vital for all healthcare providers.
  • Understanding the similarities and differences aids in accurate diagnosis and management.
  • This review provides essential knowledge for managing patients with these hematological malignancies.

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