Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Here's a simple breakdown of each:

Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL):

•  Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, large abnormal cells found in the lymph nodes.
• It often starts in a single lymph node or a group of lymph nodes and may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body over time.
• Hodgkin lymphoma is further classified into subtypes based on the appearance of Reed-Sternberg cells and other characteristics observed under the microscope.
• Symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and itching.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL):

• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a diverse group of lymphomas that do not contain Reed-Sternberg cells.
• It can originate from different types of lymphocytes (B-cells, T-cells, or NK cells) and can occur in various locations throughout the body.
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is further classified into many subtypes based on the type of lymphocyte involved, the pattern of cell growth, and other characteristics.
• Symptoms and prognosis vary depending on the subtype and stage of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can be further categorized into indolent (slow-growing) or aggressive (fast-growing) forms, which also influence treatment decisions and prognosis. Treatment for lymphoma may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation, depending on the type and stage of the disease. Early detection and prompt treatment are important for improving outcomes in both types of lymphoma.