B-cell lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is a cancer that develops in the lymphocytes. The lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell. The symptoms of B-cell lymphoma will vary, depending on the type and how advanced it is. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, chest pain, abdominal pain or swelling, breathing difficulties, night sweats, persistent fatigue, fever, and unexpected weight loss.
The various types of B-cell lymphoma and their specifics include the following:
1. Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Among the different types of B-cell lymphoma, the one which is most common is diffuse large b-cell lymphoma. Among all those who have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, this type of lymphoma affects nearly a third. Known as DLBCL, it is seen more in elderly people but can affect anyone.
It starts as a mass in the lymph node within the body. It is aggressive but responds well to treatment, and usually, 75% of all patients are completely cured.
2. Follicular Lymphoma
Of all the different types of B-cell lymphoma, 20% are of the follicular type. This is usually an indolent or slow-growing type. They mostly are found in those above 60 years of age. It is found in lymph nodes and bone marrow. In some cases, follicular lymphoma can develop into DLBCL.
Curing this lymphoma is not so easy but it can be treated easily to manage the symptoms.
3. CLL and SLL
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are similar as they affect the small lymphocytes. In CLL, cancer is found in the bone marrow and blood. In SLL, it is found in lymph nodes and spleen.
They are indolent and while they can’t be cured easily, they do not pose any problems unless they turn aggressive.
4. Mantle cell lymphoma
This type of lymphoma occurs more in men and those above 60. It is spread across the bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes. Treatment is a bit difficult as it grows fast compared to indolent lymphomas. It starts in the mantle area, which is the outer zone of the lymph nodes.
5. Marginal cell lymphoma
There are different types of marginal cell lymphomas that are mostly indolent. The type depends on the area where the lymphoma is found. It affects people over 60. Those with Hepatitis C infection or auto-immune disorders are more likely to develop this form of lymphoma.
6. Burkitt Lymphoma
This is a rare type of lymphoma but is aggressive. It occurs more in children and young adults. It appears similar to DLBCL and the difference is related to a particular gene. It affects the belly, intensive, and sex organs. Although it is aggressive, it is curable.
7. Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia
Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma is known as Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia. It is a rare type and indolent in nature. Easily bleeding is one of the symptoms of this cancer. It occurs more in those over 60. It is found in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen.
8. Hairy cell leukemia
It is a type of b-cell lymphoma that generally affects more men than women. It is found in the blood, bone marrow, and spleen. It is also slow-growing and responds well to treatment.
The above mentioned information on the different types of b-cell lymphoma will help you understand more about which ones are the aggressive ones and which are slow-growing.