This map explains non-Hodgkin lymphoma step by step: what it is, the types, the tests, the stages, the treatment and its side effects.
Tap any topic on the map to read about it. Topics with an arrow open more topics.
Tap a type on the map.
Why this matters: the type decides everything about treatment.
The most common type. Aggressive, but cured in about 6 to 7 out of 10 patients with treatment.
The most common slow-growing type. Usually controlled for many years; early stages can be cured with radiotherapy.
Usually behaves aggressively; treatment depends on age and fitness.
Slow growing. In the stomach it is often caused by H. pylori, and antibiotics alone can cure it.
Less common, often more difficult to treat. Includes peripheral T-cell, anaplastic large cell, and NK/T-cell lymphoma (nasal type, more common in Asia).
Very fast growing, but highly curable with intensive chemotherapy.
Tap a test on the map to see why it is done.
Please wait for all the reports. Why we wait
An excision or core biopsy, with special stains (such as CD20) to identify the exact type. FNAC alone is not enough.
Shows all areas involved and decides the stage; repeated to check response.
Done for some types to check marrow involvement.
Hepatitis B can flare dangerously with rituximab; if positive, an antiviral tablet is given throughout treatment.
For patients at higher risk of brain involvement.
Before starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, these tests check that you are fit for treatment, and give a starting point to compare with later.
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| CBC (complete blood count) | Haemoglobin, white cells and platelets. Treatment can lower them. |
| RFT (kidney function) | Many medicines are cleared by the kidneys; the dose may need to change. |
| LFT (liver function) | Many medicines are processed by the liver. |
| Viral markers: HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV | Hepatitis B can flare up during treatment. If positive, a tablet is given to prevent this. |
| Blood sugar (and HbA1c if diabetic) | Steroids given with chemotherapy can raise blood sugar. |
| ECG and 2D Echo | Check the heart rhythm and pumping before treatment, as some medicines affect the heart. |
Before immunotherapy, also:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Serum TSH (thyroid) | Immunotherapy can affect the thyroid gland. |
| Serum cortisol (morning sample) | Immunotherapy can affect the adrenal and pituitary glands. |
Sometimes needed, depending on your treatment:
Your doctor will choose the tests that apply to you. Some of them are repeated during treatment.
Staged by areas involved (Lugano system), plus a risk score (IPI) for aggressive types. Tap your stage on the map.
One or more lymph node groups on one side of the diaphragm.
Nodes on both sides of the diaphragm, or spread to organs or bone marrow. Many are still curable (aggressive types) or well controlled (slow types).
Tap your type on the map.
Side effects: R-CHOP · CAR-T and bispecifics
Side effects: chemotherapy
Side effects: chemotherapy · BTK inhibitors
Tap a treatment on the map.
Tap a topic on the map.
Every 3 to 6 months for the first 2 years, then less often. Scans only if there are symptoms, for most types.
Fever of 38°C or more, breathlessness, swelling of the face and neck, severe tummy pain, confusion, or new weakness need urgent care.
This information is general. Your own treatment plan may be different. Please discuss it with your doctor.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Eaga, MD, DM (Medical Oncology). Last reviewed: 12 October 2026. Based on NCCN and ESMO guidelines.
Book a hospital visit, a video consultation or a second opinion.
