Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and lung cancer: what to know

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma begins in lymphocytes, a type of immune cell. It can involve lymph nodes or organs such as the lung. Lung cancer begins in cells of the lung and is classified by its cell type and molecular features. A scan may show a mass, enlarged lymph nodes or changes around the lung, but an image alone cannot reliably distinguish these diagnoses.

Assessment may include a physical examination, blood tests, chest imaging and a biopsy. A pathologist examines the tissue and may use additional markers to identify lymphoma or a lung-cancer subtype. Staging then checks where disease is present, which can include other parts of the chest or body. Learn more about [Lung Cancer](/conditions/lung-cancer/) and [Brain Metastases](/conditions/brain-metastases/).

Take your scan reports and medication list to the appointment, and ask whether a biopsy is required before treatment begins. The team may discuss [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/) when the result could help select treatment. Options depend on the diagnosis, stage, general health and the location of disease. They may include [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) or surgery such as a [Lung Lobectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/lung-lobectomy/). Support for symptoms and wellbeing can be provided through [Palliative Care](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/palliative-care/), alongside cancer-directed care when appropriate.

Contact your clinical team promptly for worsening breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, new confusion, fainting or a high fever. Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue lips, sudden weakness or inability to stay awake. A persistent or worsening hoarse voice should also be assessed; read about [Hoarse Voice](/symptoms/hoarse-voice/). These symptoms can have several causes, so urgency is based on severity and change rather than on assuming a cancer diagnosis.

Ask: What did the biopsy show? Is this lymphoma, lung cancer or another condition? What tests are needed to stage it? Which treatment goal applies to me? Would genomic testing change the options? How will breathlessness, pain or voice changes be managed? Who should I contact outside appointments if symptoms change?