Malignant lymphomas remain a fascinating research topic for clinicians as well as basic scientists. Rapidly increasing technical sophistication, ex panded knowledge and broader implications of new findings underline the need for a forum to integrate the latest developments in the multiple areas involved in the challenging study of lymphoid malignancies. This volume includes contributions of renowned experts and is based on a selection of papers presented at the Second International Conference on Malignant Lymphomas that was held in Lugano, Switzerland, in June 1984. Updated information is provided on various experimental fields including cell biolo gy, immunology, genetics and cell biochemistry. Particular attention has been given to special clinical entities such as the lymphomas associated with the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Recent advances in the treat of Hodgkin's disease, ncin-Hodgkin's lymphomas and childhood lym ment phomas are highlighted with emphasis on growing experience with new therapeutic approaches including monoclonal antibodies and bone marrow transplantation. The contents of the volume reflect and translate numerous avenues of exploration. While there might be some unavoidable overlap, most appear essentially complementary. The intent of the Program Committee of the Second International Conference on Malignant Lymphomas was to promote further interactions between all those who are devoting major efforts to elucidate the nature of these diseases or their optimal therapy. This volume will hopefully amplify this objective. The Editors wish to thank the contributors for delivering the manuscripts on schedule.