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Information on Mantel Cell Lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a type of blood cancer that is characterized by enlarged lymph nodes and can spread to other tissues in the body. Approximately 3,500 new cases of MCL are diagnosed each year, most frequently in adults over age 60.

  1. Symptoms

    • Patients who have been diagnosed with MCL may display symptoms including nausea, loss of appetite, indigestion, abdominal pain and fatigue.

    Diagnosis

    • MCL is diagnosed by taking a biopsy of affected tissue of the lymph nodes. Examining the tissue can determine the presence of MCL and also help doctors conclude which treatments will be the most effective. Doctors also take blood samples to look at the composition of white cells and platelets present.

    Treatment

    • A hematologist-oncologist will determine the best method of MCL treatment. Most patients receive a combination of chemotherapy and prescribed medications.

    Cause

    • Nearly 85% of patients diagnosed with MCL have a genetic mutation on chromosomes 11 and 14 which affects cell division and growth and leads to lymphatic tumors.

    Future

    • The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society funds MCL research in hopes of improving the treatment and diagnosis methods of MCL.

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