Lymphoma is the third most common cancer in children in the United States. Approximately 10 percent of cancers in children less than 15 years of age are lymphomas. Hodgkin's disease rarely arises before the age of 5. It almost always develops in lymph nodes and often spreads to adjacent lymph node areas. When it is no longer confined to lymph nodes, it may spread to the spleen, liver, lungs, bones and bone marrow.
Symptoms depend on where the lymphoma is located.
The lymph nodes most often involved are those in the neck, underarms and groin. These nodes become large, firm and are usually not painful. Enlarged lymph nodes may also be located in the chest and produce a cough or breathing problems. Some children develop night sweats, fever and weight loss. If Hodgkin's disease is suspected, it is important that a complete evaluation for sites of disease occur in order to establish extent of spread.