Abstract
Background: Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) is a malignancy of the lymphatic system characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells. While current treatments have improved outcomes, challenges remain in managing relapsed/refractory disease and mitigating long-term toxicities.
Purpose: This review aims to summarize recent advances in HL biology, diagnostics, and treatment strategies, with a focus on novel therapeutic approaches and emerging research areas.
Main body: Molecular studies have revealed key pathways in HL pathogenesis, including NF-κB and JAK-STAT signaling. Advanced imaging techniques like PET-CT have improved staging and response assessment. Novel therapies, including checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific antibodies, and CAR T-cells, have demonstrated efficacy in relapsed/refractory HL. Targeted agents like BTK and EZH2 inhibitors are being explored. Optimization of conventional therapies continues, with efforts to reduce toxicity while maintaining efficacy. Long-term survivorship issues, particularly cardiovascular complications and secondary malignancies, are receiving increased attention. Fertility preservation strategies have expanded options for young patients. Emerging research areas include epigenetic modifiers, with HDAC inhibitors and EZH2 inhibitors showing promise in early trials. Microbiome studies are exploring associations between gut bacterial composition and HL risk and prognosis. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, including liposomal formulations and polymeric nanoparticles, are being investigated to enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxicity.
Conclusion: Ongoing research in HL is focused on developing more targeted, less toxic therapies and addressing long-term survivorship issues. Integration of novel agents with conventional treatments and personalized approaches based on molecular profiling hold promise for improving outcomes across the spectrum of HL management.
Keywords
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, Biomarkers, Precision Oncology