Hodgkin Lymphoma and the Microenvironment

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a maLignant neoplasm derived from germinal center B-cells. The histopathologic findings in HL are unique in that the neoplastic cells are relatively few in number and can be obscured by large numbers of nonneoplastic cells, including lymphocytes, macrophages, plasma cells, eosinophils, and fibroblasts. The microenvironment encompasses all of the inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, blood vessels, and cytokines found within the vicinity of the neoplastic cell population. The relationship between the tumor cell population and the microenvironment is critical for tumor growth and survival. The pecuLiar histopathologic findings of HL have lead investigators to study the role of the microenvironment with respect to disease pathogenesis and cLinical outcomes. Herein, we review the role of the microenvironment of HL and its relationship to disease pathogenesis through the modulation of host cell response. We conclude with a brief description of new therapeutics targeting molecules in the microenvironment.