B-cell lymphomas

B-cell lymphomas are a type of cancer that forms in B cells. B cells are a type of white blood cell that are vital to the immune system and are responsible for producing antibodies to fight off infections. B-cell lymphomas can occur in both children and adults, and are often categorized as either Hodgkin lymphoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Types of B-cell lymphomas[edit | edit source]

There are several types of B-cell lymphomas, including:

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL): This is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in adults. It is an aggressive form of lymphoma that can occur at any age, but it is most common in adults over the age of 60.

Follicular lymphoma: This is the second most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is a slow-growing form of lymphoma that often presents with painless swelling in the lymph nodes.

Mantle cell lymphoma: This is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is typically aggressive and fast-growing. It is most common in older adults, particularly men.

Burkitt lymphoma: This is a very aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is most common in children and young adults. It is associated with a specific genetic mutation.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of B-cell lymphomas can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but common symptoms include:

Swollen, painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Night sweats
Fever

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of B-cell lymphomas typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and a biopsy of the affected lymph node or tissue. Additional tests may include blood tests, imaging studies such as a CT scan or PET scan, and a bone marrow biopsy.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for B-cell lymphomas depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be recommended.