What is lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of Malignant disease of the lymphoid (immune) system, which arises from lymphocytes – cells responsible for the body's defense against infections. The disease is primarily divided into:
- Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) – in order of form, but with very good results in treatment;
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) – encompasses a variety of subtypes with different aggressiveness.
Typical symptoms of lymphoma include:
enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin;
unexplained weight loss;
• Persistent fever and night sweats;
• Constant fatigue and anemia;
• Lowered immunity and tendency to infections.
Distribution and statistics
- According to World Health Organization (WHO) и Global Cancer Observatory (IARC), annually, over are diagnosed worldwide 80,000 new cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and around 20,000 cases of Hodgkin's lymphoma.
V Bulgaria are registered approximately 500–600 new cases annually, as the frequency continues to grow.
The disease affects both men and women, but is more common after the age of 50.
The five-year survival rate for Hodgkin's lymphoma exceeds 85 %, and in non-Hodgkin's forms it varies between 60 and 75 % depending on the subtype and stage.
Latest treatment approaches
In 2025, international hematology associationsEHA, ESMO, NCCN) published updated lymphoma treatment guidelines, emphasizing a personalized approach and targeted therapies.
New diagnostic standards
- Usage of PET-CT for determining the stage and effect of therapy.
Genetic analysis of lymphocytes to refine subtype and risk of relapse.
• Defining Minimal residual disease (MRD) – criterion for deep remission.
Modern Therapeutic Options
- Combination therapies (immunochemotherapy)
- Targeted medications
- CAR-T cell therapy и bispecific antibodies - are applied in patients with relapse or resistance to standard treatment.
- Autologous or allogeneic bone marrow transplant – for patients with high-risk or recurrent forms.
- Maintenance therapy – for preventing infections, controlling anemia, and improving quality of life.
Lymphoma treatment abroad
More and more patients from Bulgaria are choosing treatment abroad, in order to access new drugs and clinical trials not available in their home country.
- Turkey – accredited (JCI) centers with experience in CAR-T therapy, immunotherapy, and transplantation;
• Austria – leading hematology institutes for lymphoma treatment and stem cell transplantation;
• Spain – specialized programs for the treatment of rare and relapsed lymphomas.
The benefits of treatment abroad include:
access to innovative medications and personalized protocols;
• Multidisciplinary care – Hematologist, oncologist, immunologist, and transplant specialist in one team;
• faster access to necessary therapy;
• Follow-up coordination and tracking after returning to Bulgaria.
What to consider when choosing a clinic
- International AccreditationJCI, ISO, TEMOS) and proven results.
- Qualified team of Oncohematology and bone marrow transplantation.
- Availability of modern diagnostic equipment and genetic research.
- Individual post-treatment follow-up plan.
- Organizational assistance and constant communication with the coordinator of "Medical Karaj".
Timely treatment saves lives
Early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment for lymphoma significantly improve the prognosis. For many patients, especially those with Hodgkin's lymphoma, complete remission is fully achievable. In more aggressive forms, timely access to modern therapies such as CAR-T cell therapy or bispecific antibodies could be decisive.
Why trust Medical Karagea
- We assist with Medical treatment abroad – from initial inquiry to stay and follow-up.
We work with prestigious oncohematology centers in Turkey, Austria, and Spain.
• We provide full support throughout the entire process.
• We coordinate Follow-up therapy and monitoring after returning to Bulgaria.
