Diagnosis guide
T-cell lymphoma
T-cell lymphomas are uncommon types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that start in T cells or natural killer (NK) cells, two kinds of immune cell. They include peripheral T-cell lymphoma, angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma, plus rarer types such as extranodal NK/T-cell, hepatosplenic and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome affect the skin. The exact type matters. Some people with the more common types have a transplant of their own stem cells once first treatment has worked. European transplant guidance recommends a donor transplant during first treatment for some people with rarer, aggressive types, and one is considered when lymphoma comes back or does not respond. Skin types are treated differently.
In short
- T-cell lymphomas are uncommon types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that start in T cells or NK cells, two kinds of immune cell.
- The exact type matters, because the types differ in how fast they grow, where they start and how they are treated.
- Some people have a transplant of their own stem cells after first treatment; a donor transplant is considered for some rarer, aggressive types or when lymphoma comes back.
Find the subtype on your report
The exact diagnosis shapes the treatment options. Your care team can explain the name on your report.
Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL-NOS)
Peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS), is a cancer of mature T cells that does not fit another defined subtype. Treatment often uses combination chemotherapy; selected patients may receive an autologous or donor transplant.
Usually the person’s own cellsAngioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL)
Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma is now classified as nodal T-follicular helper-cell lymphoma, angioimmunoblastic type. It can disrupt immune function as well as cause lymphoma growth, and treatment may include selected stem cell transplant approaches.
Usually the person’s own cellsALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)
ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a CD30-positive T-cell lymphoma driven by an ALK rearrangement. Many patients respond well to initial drug treatment; transplantation is mainly considered for selected higher-risk or relapsed disease.
Limited transplant roleALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)
ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a CD30-positive T-cell lymphoma without an ALK rearrangement. Treatment commonly uses drug combinations, with autologous or donor transplantation considered in selected situations.
Usually the person’s own cellsExtranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL)
Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma is an Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoma that often affects the nose and nearby tissues. Treatment depends strongly on its extent; selected advanced or relapsed cases may benefit from a donor transplant.
Donor transplant optionHepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL)
Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma is a rare, aggressive lymphoma that mainly involves the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Early specialist treatment and donor-transplant assessment are important because ordinary lymphoma chemotherapy alone often gives short-lived control.
Donor transplant optionAdult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL)
Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a cancer of mature T cells associated with long-standing HTLV-1 infection. Treatment differs by subtype; a donor transplant is an important potentially curative option for eligible people with aggressive disease.
Donor transplant optionMycosis fungoides
Mycosis fungoides is a T-cell lymphoma that usually begins in the skin. Early disease is often treated with skin-directed therapies; a donor stem cell transplant is an option for selected advanced or difficult-to-treat cases.
Limited transplant roleSézary syndrome
Sézary syndrome is a mature T-cell lymphoma involving the blood and usually causing widespread inflamed, itchy skin. Systemic treatment is central; a donor stem cell transplant can offer lasting remission for selected eligible patients.
Donor transplant option
Support for patients and families
These independent organizations offer information and support. JBF is not affiliated with them.
- Lymphoma Research Foundation US nonprofit devoted to lymphoma; it explains peripheral T-cell lymphoma and runs a helpline for patients and families.United States
- Lymphoma Action UK charity with a freephone helpline, live chat, monthly support meetings, peer buddies and free books for anyone affected by lymphoma.United Kingdom
- Lymphoma Canada Canadian charity offering free patient guides, peer mentoring, support groups, webinars and an ask-a-specialist service for people with lymphoma.Canada
Other patients are waiting for a match.
Most people with T-cell lymphoma are treated without a registry donor. Many people with other blood cancers and blood disorders need a donor who is a stranger.
Join the registry
JBF points you to the official registry that serves your country. It explains who can join and what donation involves.
Help a family run a drive
If someone you love needs a donor, a registration drive can add many potential donors at once, for them and for others.
Support this work
Gifts to the Jada Bascom Foundation support donor-awareness education like this guide, community outreach, drive planning and referrals to official registries.
Sources and further reading
- Adult Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment (PDQ), Patient Version
National Cancer Institute, 2024-08-22 - Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Lymphoma Research Foundation, Accessed 2026-09-24 - Indications for haematopoietic cell transplantation and CAR-T for haematological diseases, solid tumours and immune disorders: 2025 EBMT practice recommendations
EBMT / Bone Marrow Transplantation, 2025-09-09
