Genetic Link Between Immune System and Lymphoma May Provide Insight
Connection with the Epstein-Barr virus
Those who have had infectious mononucleosis have a heightened risk of Hodgkin lymphoma. The infection comes from the Epstein-Barr virus, and those who have the EBV without having had mononucleosis are at a higher risk, but overall it is still relatively small. The role of EBV is unclear when it comes to the development of Hodgkin lymphoma, and some consider the connection inconclusive given the vast number of people who are infected with EBV who never develop Hodgkin lymphoma.
