Molecular findings and classification of malignant lymphomas

We review the problem of lymphoma classification in the light of the Revised European-American Lymphoma (REAL) scheme, recently proposed by the International Lymphoma Study Group (ILSG). The REAL classification is a list of clinicopathologic entities, all well known from the literature, upon which the ILSG members agreed. Although it contains nothing new, for the first time all the elements, including immunophenotype and molecular data, which characterise a given lymphoma entity are considered. This approach corresponds to the need for objective criteria integrating the often puzzling morphologic findings. Furthermore, better knowledge of the molecular events which contribute to tumour development and progression is of paramount importance for the development of more specific and successful therapies. Some relevant molecular findings included in the classification and additional data obtained by the ILSG members following its publication are discussed.