Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is the most prevalent hematological malignancy worldwide and accounts for approximately 3% of all cancer cases and fatalities. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has advanced molecular diagnosis and targeted treatment in developed countries. However, developing countries face barriers like limited infrastructure, funding, and expertise, hindering wide NGS adoption. This narrative review evaluates the progress, challenges, and feasibility of using NGS for NHL diagnosis in developing countries. METHODS: A comprehensive narrative literature review was conducted. We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases for relevant English-language articles published between January 2008 and December 2025. The focus was on synthesizing evidence from studies applying NGS for NHL diagnosis, with particular emphasis on data from developing countries and comparisons with advancements in developed regions. RESULTS: NGS has improved NHL subclassification accuracy and identified clinically relevant mutations, enabling personalized therapies. Studies from China, India, and South Africa demonstrate successful implementation of panel-based NGS strategies. Despite this, challenges persist, including high costs, lack of standardized protocols, infrastructural deficits, and workforce shortages, limiting broader utilization in resource-limited settings. Collaborative efforts and investments have begun to address these issues in some developing countries. CONCLUSION: NGS promises significant benefits in NHL diagnosis and management in developing countries. Overcoming financial, technical, and training barriers through targeted policies, funding, and international cooperation is crucial to harnessing its full potential. With ongoing advancements, NGS is poised to become a crucial tool for diagnosis and guiding therapy worldwide, including in resource-limited settings.