[Risk factors for Hodgkin's lymphomas]

Abstract

Objective: To divulge the risk factors associated with Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) in children and adults among pediatricians.

Methods: We performed a literature review of the last 25 years through the Medline, IAR Cancer, and Cancerlit databases. The search profile was "HL risk factors". The most interesting papers, as well as those cited and published more than 25 years prior to the search, were selected.

Results: The following risk factors for HL were reported with greater or lesser evidence: a) genetic (variation in the HLA class II region); b) viral infections (Epstein-Barr virus); c) childhood environment and socio-economic status; d) congenital and acquired immunodeficiency; e) medical conditions and f) occupational exposure (the wood industry and its derivatives).

Conclusions: The etiology of most HL is unknown. The most important risk factors are: 1) genetic; 2) Epstein-Barr virus (infectious mononucleosis); 3) congenital and acquired immunodeficiency; 4) occupational exposure (the wood industry).