The etiology of Hodgkin's disease is unknown, and the identity of the normal counterpart of the malignant cell involved in Hodgkin's disease remains controversial. Yet, three of every four patients diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease will be cured. This success in treatment is due in large part to the application of modern oncologic techniques, such as combination chemotherapy and the use of staging to guide therapy. This article reviews important advances in the understanding and treatment of Hodgkin's disease.