T-Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorders

T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders, a group of neoplastic disease that result from the clonal proliferation of mature post-thymic T-lymphocytes, are classified on the basis of their clinical behaviour (indolent or aggressive) and presentation (nodal, extranodal and leukaemic diseases). They are infrequent diseases, with a peculiar geographic distribution, and they represent a big challenge for haematologists, since their prognosis is still rather disappointing with the currently available treatment strategies. A precise clinical diagnosis and histological classification is important in terms of patient management, prognosis and therapy. The application of molecular techniques and immunological markers has clarified some aspects of the pathogenesis of these diseases and has provided the rationale for the development of new specific treatment approaches, which are now being tested in international clinical trials.