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Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a group of lymphoid cancers that includes indolent and aggressive subtypes.
Quick Answer
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a group of lymphoid cancers that includes indolent and aggressive subtypes. Dr. Sachita Baniya (NMC 20158, 8+ years of clinical experience in haematology and haemato-oncology) evaluates non-hodgkin lymphoma at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal — evidence-based, medically reviewed.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma encompasses many B-cell, T-cell and natural killer cell cancers. Some are indolent and monitored for years; others are aggressive and need prompt treatment. Subtype diagnosis by biopsy, immunohistochemistry and molecular testing is essential because treatment differs substantially.
Excisional biopsy with immunohistochemistry is preferred. Flow cytometry, cytogenetics, FISH and molecular testing refine the subtype. PET-CT and bone marrow assessment stage the disease.
Treatment is subtype-specific and may include observation, chemoimmunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy, transplant or CAR-T. Response is assessed with imaging and clinical review.
Management is individualized and discussed with benefits, limitations, and follow-up.
There is no proven prevention. Early evaluation of persistent lymph node swelling is the most useful practical step.
Red flags — seek urgent care
Hodgkin lymphoma contains Reed-Sternberg cells and has a distinct spread pattern and treatment. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma includes many subtypes with different biology and treatment.
Many aggressive subtypes can be cured with modern therapy, while indolent subtypes are often controlled for years. The outlook depends on subtype, stage and response.
An excisional or core biopsy preserves tissue architecture and allows immunohistochemistry and molecular studies. Fine-needle aspiration alone may not provide enough information for a precise subtype diagnosis.
Some indolent lymphomas are monitored without immediate treatment. This avoids unnecessary toxicity and does not appear to worsen outcomes when treatment is started for standard indications.
An indolent lymphoma can change into a more aggressive lymphoma, often presenting with rapid growth, new symptoms or rising LDH. It requires urgent biopsy and treatment planning.
Autologous transplant is used for selected relapsed chemosensitive lymphoma. Allogeneic transplant is considered in selected high-risk or relapsed cases.
CAR-T is used in selected relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphomas. It requires eligibility assessment, referral and close monitoring for cytokine release syndrome and neurological toxicity.
Follow-up includes clinical review, imaging when indicated, blood counts and surveillance for late effects. Survivorship planning is individualised.
Diagnosis, staging and treatment planning for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Eligibility assessment, referral coordination and follow-up for CAR-T cell therapy.
Diagnostic bone marrow sampling for cytopenias, suspected blood cancer and treatment monitoring.
Hodgkin lymphoma is a lymphoid cancer characterised by Reed-Sternberg cells, often presenting with painless lymph node swelling.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common aggressive lymphoma, typically presenting as a rapidly growing mass.
Follicular lymphoma is a common indolent B-cell lymphoma that often grows slowly and may be monitored for years.
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Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-11-10
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.
Doctor — medically reviewed
Dr. Sachita Baniya
Consultant Haemato-Oncologist & Clinical Hematologist • MBBS, FCPS (Clinical Haematology) • NMC 20158
This condition guide was medically reviewed by Dr. Sachita Baniya.
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