Hodgkin's disease: pathology and pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of Hodgkin's disease has been the subject of intensive investigation for nearly a century. Numerous lines of inquiry have been pursued and the resulting quantity of literature on the subject attests to the enigmatic nature of the disease. Periodically, it becomes prudent to review progress in the study of a disease such as this, in light of recent methodologic and conceptual advances. By so doing, a more integrated view of the disease process may emerge, thereby guiding future research endeavors. The present report is undertaken to explore, in depth, recent advances in the study of the pathology and pathogenesis of Hodgkin's disease. Contemporary classifications, clinicopathologic and epidemiologic studies, cellular and humoral derangements, and the controversial nature of the Reed-Sternberg cell are considered.