This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.

The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.

Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.

In recent years, many advances have been made in treating HD. Most newly diagnosed patients can be cured with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Treatment for HD is based on the stage of the disease. However, factors that are unique to an individual may alter standard therapy. Some of these factors include the person's age and general health and the type, stage, and site of the disease.

For children, doctors want to choose the treatment with the fewest side effects that can still cure the cancer. Because the cure rate in children is so high (around 90%), research is being done to learn how to avoid the most harmful treatments whenever possible.

After HD is staged, the cancer care team will discuss treatment options with you. Take the time to think about all of your choices. Be sure that you understand all the risks and side effects of the various treatments before making a decision for your child.

Seeking a second opinion can give you more information and help you feel confident about the treatment plan that you choose. The doctor should be willing to help you find another cancer doctor who can give you a second opinion. Some insurance companies require a second opinion before they will agree to pay for certain treatments.

Almost all children with cancer are treated at centers that specialize in treating children. Often they are asked to join in clinical trials of treatment. Most children in the US are treated in clinical trials.

For almost all patients with HD, complete cure is the main goal of the cancer care team. The 2 main methods of treating HD are chemotherapy (the use of cancer-killing drugs) and radiation therapy (the use of high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors).

The best approach may involve using one or both of these treatments. Bone marrow transplantation, discussed later, is being used for certain patients when the other treatments haven’t been successful. In most cases, except for biopsy and staging, surgery plays little role in the treatment of HD.

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