Introduction to a review series on marginal zone lymphoma: reclaiming the afterthought

Abstract

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is a heterogenous group of indolent B-cell lymphomas, originally grouped together because of similarities in histological and immunophenotypic cellular features and now recognized to have constitutive activation of the NF-κB pathway as central to their pathophysiology. Associate Editor Philippe Armand presents a review series on these fascinating lymphomas. Laurent and Bertoni explain current thinking about pathogenesis and biology and how they inform classification. Alderuccio and Noy outline modern paradigms for therapy, while Thieblemont, Carras, and Bommier look forward and highlight how drug development and clinical trials can be directed toward improving treatments and outcomes. A common message is that MZL is ripe for advances, which patients will be most pleased to hear.