18th International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma (ICML) concludes today in Lugano
Institute of Oncology Research
Lugano, June 21, 2025 — The 18th edition of the International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma (18-ICML), one of the most prestigious global events dedicated to lymphoid malignancies, concludes today after a week of intense scientific exchange and groundbreaking presentations.
Organized by the Foundation for the Institute of Oncology Research (IOR) and originally launched in 1981, ICML is held biennially in Lugano. This year’s edition brought together around 4’500 on-site participants and an additional 600 virtual attendees from across the globe. Over 1’000 abstracts were submitted — a 20% increase from the previous edition — with only the top 15% selected for oral presentation and another 30% showcased as posters, totaling 301.
Throughout the 75 sessions of the Conference — which included 77 hours of scientific programme and 33 hours of industry satellite symposia — experts explored the latest advances in lymphoma research and treatment.
Among the top-ranked abstracts presented during the Plenary session was a Swiss study led by Dr. Anastasios Stathis of the Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), introducing a molecular biology-based approach to personalizing therapy for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
Another major highlight was the Ultmann Lecture, delivered by Prof. Emanuele Zucca, honoring the achievements of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG), headquartered in Bellinzona.
In addition, for the first time in ICML history, a dedicated session i was held for oncology nurses, underlining the growing role of multidisciplinary care in the management of lymphoma.
The Conference also saw a significant contribution from Chinese researchers, who submitted nearly 25% of all abstracts. Around 250 participants came from China, reflecting a strong and growing collaboration between Chinese institutions and Swiss research centers such as IOR.
The next edition of ICML is planned for June 15–19, 2027.
