Hodgkin's lymphoma, illustration. Hodgkin's lymphoma, or Hodgkin's disease, is a malignant (cancerous) tumour (neoplasm) that develops in the lymphoreticular system and originates from lymphocyte white blood cells. It is differentiated from other lymphomas by the large multinucleated cells (Sternberg-Reed cells, centre). Treatment combines surgery, drug therapy and radiotherapy. Early treatment is usually successful.