Musculoskeletal Manifestations of T-Cell Lymphomas: Clinical Presentation, Imaging Features, Pathobiology, and...

Lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of aggressive lymphoid malignancies characterized by frequent extranodal involvement. Musculoskeletal manifestations, although uncommon, represent a clinically significant and under-recognized presentation that often mimics primary bone tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, and infectious conditions, leading to diagnostic delays and inappropriate initial management. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, pathology, and biological basis of musculoskeletal T-cell lymphomas, with particular emphasis on implications for orthopedic practice. A structured literature search was conducted across major databases from 2000 to the present, and evidence was integrated across clinical, radiologic, pathologic, and therapeutic domains. Musculoskeletal involvement most commonly presents with localized bone pain, soft tissue masses, or pathological fractures, with imaging features such as diffuse marrow infiltration, soft tissue extension, and relatively preserved cortical bone serving as important diagnostic clues. Definitive diagnosis relies on tissue biopsy with comprehensive immunophenotypic and molecular characterization. Emerging insights into the tumor microenvironment highlight its role in disease progression and therapeutic response, offering potential avenues for targeted treatment strategies. Management is subtype-specific and centers on systemic therapy, with selective roles for radiotherapy and orthopedic intervention in cases of structural compromise. Early recognition through integrated clinical, imaging, and pathological assessment, combined with multidisciplinary collaboration, is essential to optimize outcomes in this rare but challenging disease entity.