Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an essential part of the immune system, working to fight off infections in the body. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or NHL, develops when white blood cells become abnormal. They can then create tumors throughout the body. Mature B-cell neoplasm is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, stemming from B-cell issues. B cells are white blood cells responsible for eliminating infections by creating antibodies.
Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) provides cutting-edge treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Our locations in New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C. area offer comprehensive care to people facing the full range of cancerous conditions, including mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
There are many forms of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and symptoms can vary from patient to patient. However, some of the most common signs include:
Each type of B-cell lymphoma can develop in varying ways and affect patients differently. The most prevalent kinds of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas include:
This is one of the most common non-Hodgkin lymphomas. It can affect the lymph system, brain, gastrointestinal tract, breasts, and testes. Patients can be diagnosed with either of two types of DLBCL: primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma or primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma.
CNS lymphoma mostly appears in patients with existing immune system issues, like acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), or those who recently underwent an organ transplant. It can develop in the spinal cord, brain, and sometimes the eyes. Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma is most commonly found in young women. It causes the fast growth of tumors in the chest cavity between the lungs. Eventually, this can lead to issues in blood vessels and airways.
This is another common type of lymphoma that typically impacts older individuals. Follicular lymphoma usually develops in the lymph nodes or bone marrow and can progress slowly. Although it does not grow fast, it can worsen over time and eventually progress to DLBCL.
This is a lymphoma that develops in the spleen through mature B cells. It can arise alongside other infections and is considered a slow-growing lymphoma. There are three different types of marginal zone lymphomas, including:
A less common form of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, MCL can develop in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. It occurs through dysfunction in chromosomes and usually affects older men. While this is a slow-growing lymphoma, it can potentially lead to additional medical issues.
Physicians begin the diagnostic process by completing a physical exam, evaluating symptoms, and taking a thorough medical history. They may also use imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If a doctor believes a patient has a B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the physician may conduct additional testing, such as:
For some cases of B-cell lymphomas, physicians may wait to start treatment. If a patient’s condition is mild or the person isn’t experiencing symptoms, doctors will instead monitor the disease through frequent appointments. This is especially true for slow-growing B-cell lymphomas, such as follicular and MCL. However, if a patient’s lymphoma spreads or worsens, treatment is necessary to control abnormal white blood cell production. Mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas can require one or many treatment methods, including:
Serving patients across NJ, CT, MD, and the Washington, D.C. area, Regional Cancer Care Associates is here to meet the needs of people facing mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers. To learn more, contact us today.
If you or a loved one is battling non-Hodgkin lymphoma, you aren’t alone. Our experts at Regional Cancer Care Associates are dedicated to delivering accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. To find out more or make an appointment, get in touch with us at one of our locations throughout Connecticut, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Leading cancer care provider Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) is proud to announce that it will be adding a new location in Edison, N.J., with the joining of long-standing, Edison-based practice Oncology and Hematology Associates of Central Jersey PA into the RCCA network of facilities, effective Jan. 1, 2022.
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