Intrathoracic lymphoproliferative disorders and lymphoma

The spectrum of lymphoproliferative disorders is truly a continuum from benign diseases to malignant aggressive lymphomas. Remarkable advances in laboratory techniques of monoclonal antibody production and molecular biology over the last decade allow more sophisticated analysis of these diseases. It is now apparent that some entities previously labeled "benign" are actually non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. We review the current knowledge of this spectrum including the histopathologic and clinical findings, as well as the radiographic characteristics. Understanding the diseases, treatment challenges, and follow-up requirements aids the radiologist in a more efficient and cost-effective evaluation of these patients.