What is the difference between Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a broad term for cancer that begins in cells of the lymph system, and it has two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Which type a person has is an important part of understanding the diagnosis.

One key difference is the outlook. Hodgkin lymphoma can often be cured. For non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the prognosis depends on the specific type. "Prognosis" means the likely course and outcome of a disease.

Because non-Hodgkin lymphoma covers many specific types, the outlook can vary from person to person. That is why knowing the exact type matters.

Your healthcare team is the best source for information about what a specific type of lymphoma means for a particular situation.