[Clinical aspects and primary therapy of Hodgkin's lymphomas]

In spite of intensive research, the etiology and the pathogenesis of Hodgkin's lymphoma are still unclear. Hodgkin's lymphoma is clinically characterized by the appearance of enlarged lymph nodes and systemic symptoms. The diagnosis is exclusively based on the identification of the typical Reed-Sternberg cells surrounded by a mixture of reactive cells. Careful staging aims at determining disease extent and other risk factors which have therapeutic relevance. The appropriate use of modern radio- and chemotherapy results in the cure of approximately 75% of all patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma. The prognosis of patients in limited or intermediate stages is particularly favourable. New treatment strategies aim at reducing therapy related long-term toxicity while preserving the high chance of cure. In contrast, the prognosis of patients in advanced stages is still unsatisfactory. The main goal of the clinical research is to improve treatment results for these patients.