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Small lymphocytic lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects B-cells in the body. Depending on the type and severity of the lymphoma, patients may or may not experience symptoms. The medical team at Regional Cancer Care Associates is equipped with the experience, expertise, and resources necessary to treat a variety of lymphomas, including small lymphocytic lymphoma. Serving patients at more than 20 locations, across New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, DC area, the Regional Cancer Care Associates team provides compassionate, cutting-edge care.
A slow-growing form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) is a cancerous condition that affects the growth of B-cells. B-cells develop in the bone marrow. They are responsible for fighting infections and are an essential part of the body’s immune system. Once abnormal B-cell production occurs, this can cause cancerous cells to accumulate in the lymph nodes, tonsils, or spleen. These cells can destroy healthy cells and lead to other health conditions, such as anemia.
Many individuals may not know they have SLL. This is because symptoms don’t typically present until the later stages of this disease. When symptoms do arise, they can vary for each patient. Some common signs of SLL include:
Physicians typically diagnose SLL in older patients. Because many patients do not experience symptoms, identification of SLL can occur accidentally based on the results of routine blood tests. In other cases, however, a patient presents with symptoms that may indicate SLL. In these instances, the physician typically obtains a thorough history and then conducts a comprehensive physical examination, with particular attention to the spleen and lymph nodes. In addition, physicians may schedule imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a computed tomography (CT) scan to look more closely at affected areas.
If physicians believe a patient has SLL, they may conduct additional tests. These tests can include:
Some individuals can have stable SLL with mild or no symptoms. This is because SLL often is a slowly progressing disease. In such cases, physicians may hold off on treatment. Instead, they can closely monitor the lymphoma by scheduling regular check-ups and tests to watch for progression and associated symptoms.
If a patient experiences significant symptoms or the lymphoma has spread to other areas, treatment is necessary. In developing an individualized treatment plan, physicians consider several factors, such as the severity of the condition and type of lymphoma, as well as the patient’s symptoms and age. This enables them to choose from among several treatment options, which include:
At Regional Cancer Care Associates, our specialists have the experience and expertise to provide cutting-edge, compassionate treatment for SLL and other blood-based cancers. We serve patients across NJ, CT, and MD as well as the Washington D.C., area, making it easy to receive vital care in a convenient location. To learn more about small lymphocytic lymphoma and the available treatments for this condition, contact us or request an appointment 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.
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