[New WHO classification of lymphoid neoplasms: understanding and consideration]

The latest version of new WHO classification of lymphoid neoplasms is a comprehensive and distinct opinion of lymphoid neoplasms, and maybe put an end to the controversy held in this field for a long time. The new classification defines the neoplasm categories according to the principle that the classification should be based on the real entities of diseases and should contain the morphology, immunophenotypes, genetic alterations and clinical features rather than simply emphasize the pure morphologic presentations. The new subtyping of lymphoid cancers provides a correct framework for malignant lymphoma, and also represents a new paradigm in disease classification. So far the accumulated experiences have demonstrated that the new classification is reproducible and practical. However, it remains to determine how the variants of lymphomas relate to their clinical prognostic factors, such as international prognostic index and individual difference, since the current treatment approach relays on the types of lymphomas. The diagnosis, treatment and researches of lymphomas in China are also discussed.