Cambridge provided the perfect setting for the British Lymphoma Pathology Group (BLPG) Autumn Meeting on 21 November 2025. With its world-renowned colleges, tranquil riverside walks, and centuries-old academic tradition, Cambridge provided an inspiring backdrop for a day dedicated to advancing lymphoma diagnostics and research. Held at the beautiful St Catharine's College, the meeting brought together pathologists, scientists, and clinicians for an outstanding programme that reflected both the depth of modern haematopathology and the collaborative spirit of our specialty.

The hybrid meeting attracted a full audience in the lecture theatre, with more than 70 additional delegates joining online from across the world. The lively discussions throughout the day demonstrated the continued strength and international reach of the BLPG community.

The scientific programme opened with a superb session on low grade lymphomas. Our invited speaker, Prof Luc Xerri (Marseille), delivered an outstanding lecture on Germinal Centre B-cell Subsets and Follicular Lymphoma Subtypes, providing fascinating insights into lymphoma biology and classification.

This was followed by another distinguished guest, Prof German Ott (Stuttgart), who presented an excellent overview of BCL2 Translocation-Negative Follicular Lymphoma and its Differential Diagnosis. His practical approach and wealth of experience generated considerable discussion among delegates.

Continuing the morning session, Dr Myrsini Tzioni, presenting work from Prof Ming-Qing Du's group at the University of Cambridge, shared exciting findings demonstrating that different primary thyroid B-cell lymphomas exhibit overlapping mutational profiles, highlighting the evolving role of molecular pathology in understanding lymphoma pathogenesis.

The focus then shifted to NGS,, an area rapidly transforming diagnostic haematopathology. Dr Ayoma Attygalle (The Royal Marsden) led a lively and thought-provoking discussion on How Do We Choose Cases for NGS Analysis?, addressing the practical challenges faced in routine diagnostic practice. Building on this theme, Prof Ming-Qing Du (Cambridge), explored the Hidden Potential and Pitfalls of Mutation Profiling by NGS, providing valuable insights into both the opportunities and limitations of molecular testing. The final presentation before lunch was delivered by Dr Livia Raso-Barnett (Cambridge), who discussed The National Test Directory: What Do We Need? Her presentation offered an informative perspective on how national guidelines and policies are shaping the implementation of NGS in everyday practice.

The lunch break provided an excellent opportunity for networking, allowing colleagues to reconnect, exchange ideas, and continue scientific discussions in the welcoming surroundings of St Catharine's College.

The afternoon programme focused on high-grade lymphomas from both clinical and pathological perspectives. Prof Andy Davies(Southampton) offered the clinician's viewpoint in his engaging lecture, What Does the Clinician Need from Pathologists?, emphasising the importance of close multidisciplinary collaboration in delivering optimal patient care. Continuing the clinical theme, Dr Dan Hodson (Cambridge) discussed Genomic Classification of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma to Meet Clinical Need, demonstrating how genomic advances are increasingly influencing therapeutic decision-making.

From the busy molecular diagnostic centre in Leeds, Dr Sharon Barrans (HMDS) presented an excellent overview of Molecular Subtyping of DLBCL to Meet Clinical Need, highlighting the practical application of molecular classification in routine diagnostic services. Returning to the podium, Prof Ming-Qing Du delivered another fascinating lecture on MYC Translocation in DLBCL and High-Grade B-cell Lymphoma: Why the Partner Matters, bringing together molecular mechanisms and their diagnostic significance with his trademark clarity.

Following the afternoon coffee break, delegates enjoyed two excellent educational case presentations demonstrating how complex diagnostic challenges are translated into routine practice. Dr Liron Barnea Slonim, (King's College & BLPG Treasurer), presented a highly instructive case, followed by another outstanding case from Dr Calogero Casà of Cambridge, both stimulating enthusiastic audience participation.

As always, the meeting concluded with the much-anticipated (EQA) Discussion, expertly led by Dr Anna Green, Dr Malee Fernando, and Dr Lakshmi Venkatraman. This interactive session remains one of the highlights of every BLPG meeting, encouraging open discussion and shared learning from challenging diagnostic cases.

Beyond the outstanding scientific programme, the meeting also celebrated the collegiality that makes the BLPG such a special society. Our host and BLPG Research Officer, Prof Ming-Qing Du, extended exceptional hospitality by hosting not one, but two memorable dinners—a welcoming pre-meeting gathering and a post-meeting celebration. The latter, held at one of Cambridge's finest Chinese restaurants, was particularly special. The relaxed atmosphere provided the perfect opportunity for further conversations, new collaborations, and catching up with colleagues and friends.

The BLPG Autumn Meeting once again demonstrated the exceptional quality of education, research, and collaboration within the haematopathology community. Scientific excellence, engaging discussion, and the unique charm of Cambridge combined to make this a truly memorable event.

We now look forward to the next BLPG meeting, which will be held in London on 20 November 2026. Be sure to save the date—we look forward to seeing you there.