Malignant Lymphoma
Malignant lymphoma is a group of cancers arising from lymphocytes in lymph nodes or organs, ranging from indolent to rapidly aggressive disease.
Key takeaways
- A persistent enlarged node, unexplained fever, night sweats or weight loss warrants assessment but does not prove lymphoma.
- Adequate tissue biopsy is essential because subtype and molecular features determine treatment.
- Some indolent lymphomas are observed initially, while aggressive forms need prompt combination therapy.
The listings below are not interchangeable cancer medicines; haematology should confirm subtype, stage and treatment goal.
From node to subtype
Excisional or core biopsy preserves architecture better than a small needle sample in many cases. Pathology, immunophenotyping and genetic tests distinguish Hodgkin lymphoma and numerous B- or T-cell subtypes. PET-CT or other imaging then maps disease extent.
Treatment and monitoring
Chemotherapy, antibody therapy, targeted medicines, radiotherapy and cellular therapies have subtype-specific roles. Fertility, infection prevention and tumour-lysis risk are addressed before treatment. Response imaging and laboratory monitoring guide whether the planned course should continue or change.
When to seek urgent care
Contact the treating team urgently for fever during therapy, breathing or swallowing difficulty from a rapidly enlarging mass, uncontrolled bleeding, confusion, severe weakness or very low urine output.