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What is Mantle Cell Lymphoma?
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a cancer of the lymphatic system. It is named after the mantle zone - the region surrounding the germinal center of lymph nodes, where the B cells from which this cancer originates are typically found. MCL is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) within the lymph nodes, blood, and bone marrow. The disease often spreads to other areas such as the spleen, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.
Types of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
While mantle cell lymphoma is generally considered as a single disease, there are variations in how the disease can present and progress. These variations can be broadly categorized into two types: classic MCL and the blastoid variant. Classic MCL is the most common form and is characterized by small to medium-sized lymphocytes. The blastoid variant is more aggressive and is characterized by larger, more irregularly shaped cells. It's important to note that these are not distinct subtypes, but rather variations in the disease's presentation.
Why Do People Get Mantle Cell Lymphoma?
The exact cause of mantle cell lymphoma is unknown. However, it is known that MCL occurs when a B lymphocyte develops a genetic mutation in the DNA. This mutation causes the cell to grow and divide rapidly, leading to the accumulation of abnormal B lymphocytes that crowd out healthy cells and cause the signs and symptoms of MCL. Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing MCL include age (most people diagnosed are in their 60s), gender (it is more common in men), and a weakened immune system. However, many people with MCL have no identifiable risk factors, suggesting that other unknown factors may also contribute to the development of this disease.
Want to Learn More About Mantle Cell Lymphoma?
Keep reading HealthTree for Mantle Cell Lymphoma's 101 pages!
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a cancer of the lymphatic system. It is named after the mantle zone - the region surrounding the germinal center of lymph nodes, where the B cells from which this cancer originates are typically found. MCL is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) within the lymph nodes, blood, and bone marrow. The disease often spreads to other areas such as the spleen, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.
Types of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
While mantle cell lymphoma is generally considered as a single disease, there are variations in how the disease can present and progress. These variations can be broadly categorized into two types: classic MCL and the blastoid variant. Classic MCL is the most common form and is characterized by small to medium-sized lymphocytes. The blastoid variant is more aggressive and is characterized by larger, more irregularly shaped cells. It's important to note that these are not distinct subtypes, but rather variations in the disease's presentation.
Why Do People Get Mantle Cell Lymphoma?
The exact cause of mantle cell lymphoma is unknown. However, it is known that MCL occurs when a B lymphocyte develops a genetic mutation in the DNA. This mutation causes the cell to grow and divide rapidly, leading to the accumulation of abnormal B lymphocytes that crowd out healthy cells and cause the signs and symptoms of MCL. Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing MCL include age (most people diagnosed are in their 60s), gender (it is more common in men), and a weakened immune system. However, many people with MCL have no identifiable risk factors, suggesting that other unknown factors may also contribute to the development of this disease.
Want to Learn More About Mantle Cell Lymphoma?
Keep reading HealthTree for Mantle Cell Lymphoma's 101 pages!
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