T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma

T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (T-cell NHL) is a heterogeneous group of rare lymphoid malignancies arising from mature or immature T-lymphocytes. These cancers affect the lymphatic system and can involve lymph nodes, skin, liver, spleen, gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, and other organs depending on the specific subtype. T-cell NHLs account for approximately 10-15% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas in Western countries, though they are more prevalent in certain Asian and Caribbean populations. Major subtypes include peripheral T-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS), angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, and various cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Key symptoms vary by subtype but commonly include painless lymph node enlargement (lymphadenopathy), unexplained fevers, drenching night sweats, unintentional weight loss (collectively known as B-symptoms), fatigue, and skin lesions or rashes. Some subtypes may present with hepatosplenomegaly, gastrointestinal symptoms, or widespread extranodal disease. Many T-cell NHLs tend to behave more aggressively than their B-cell counterparts and may present at advanced stages. Treatment typically involves combination chemotherapy, with CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) or CHOP-like regimens being commonly used as first-line therapy. For certain subtypes such as anaplastic large cell lymphoma expressing ALK, outcomes with standard chemotherapy are more favorable. Newer targeted therapies including brentuximab vedotin, romidepsin, belinostat, and pralatrexate have been approved for relapsed or refractory disease. Autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation may be considered for eligible patients, particularly in the consolidation setting or for relapsed disease. Despite advances, prognosis for many T-cell NHL subtypes remains challenging, and clinical trial participation is often encouraged.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Common questions about T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma