Background and objectives: The REAL/WHO classification constitutes a new tool for the better understanding and treatment of malignant lymphomas. The authors focus on the key features of B-cell lymphomas with an indolent behavior, aiming to contribute to the cross-talk between pathologists and clinicians.
Data sources and methods: Each lymphoma entity is analyzed on the basis of the most representative contributions in the literature and the authors' experience gained in studying more than 20,000 lymphoid tumors over a 20-year period.
Results: Guidelines for diagnosis and areas of interest for future clinico-pathologic studies are identified and discussed. Within this context, selected data obtained by the application of novel markers are presented.
Interpretation and conclusions: The present know- ledge and organization of malignant lymphomas now make the development of tailored therapies a feasible goal.