Blood cancers
Cancer types
Hodgkin lymphoma
Leukaemias (AML, ALL, CML, CLL), Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
Leukaemias (AML, ALL, CML, CLL), Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
This map explains Hodgkin lymphoma step by step: what it is, the types, the tests, the stages, the treatment and its side effects.
Tap any topic on the map to read about it. Topics with an arrow open more topics.
Tap a type on the map.
About 95 out of 100. Subtypes include nodular sclerosis (most common) and mixed cellularity; treated the same way.
Rare and slow growing; treated more like an indolent lymphoma, sometimes with radiotherapy or rituximab alone.
Tap a test on the map to see why it is done.
Please wait for all the reports. Why we wait
Removal of a whole lymph node (excision) or a core biopsy. A needle aspiration (FNAC) is not enough to diagnose lymphoma.
Shows all areas involved, decides the stage, and is repeated after 2 cycles to guide treatment.
Blood counts, ESR, liver function, HIV, hepatitis B and C.
Echo (doxorubicin) and lung function tests (bleomycin) before treatment.
Discuss sperm or egg storage before treatment, especially if more intensive chemotherapy is planned.
Before starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, these tests check that you are fit for treatment, and give a starting point to compare with later.
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| CBC (complete blood count) | Haemoglobin, white cells and platelets. Treatment can lower them. |
| RFT (kidney function) | Many medicines are cleared by the kidneys; the dose may need to change. |
| LFT (liver function) | Many medicines are processed by the liver. |
| Viral markers: HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV | Hepatitis B can flare up during treatment. If positive, a tablet is given to prevent this. |
| Blood sugar (and HbA1c if diabetic) | Steroids given with chemotherapy can raise blood sugar. |
| ECG and 2D Echo | Check the heart rhythm and pumping before treatment, as some medicines affect the heart. |
Before immunotherapy, also:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Serum TSH (thyroid) | Immunotherapy can affect the thyroid gland. |
| Serum cortisol (morning sample) | Immunotherapy can affect the adrenal and pituitary glands. |
Sometimes needed, depending on your treatment:
Your doctor will choose the tests that apply to you. Some of them are repeated during treatment.
Lymphoma is staged by the areas involved (Lugano system). Tap your stage on the map.
One or more groups of lymph nodes on one side of the diaphragm. Divided into favourable and unfavourable by risk factors (such as a large chest mass or high ESR).
Lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm, or spread to organs such as the spleen, liver, bone or marrow. Still curable in most.
Tap your stage on the map.
Side effects: chemotherapy · radiotherapy
Side effects: chemotherapy · immunotherapy
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Fever of 38°C or more during chemotherapy, breathlessness or cough, chest pain, or swelling of the face and neck need urgent care.
This information is general. Your own treatment plan may be different. Please discuss it with your doctor.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Eaga, MD, DM (Medical Oncology). Last reviewed: 12 October 2026. Based on NCCN and ESMO guidelines.
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