Lymphoma, Mantle Cell

Mantle Cell lymphoma (MCL) is one of about 30 sub-types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. MCL represents up to 8% of all diagnosed lymphomas. It is a cancer of the B-lymphocyte. Most patients who have MCL are 60 years old or greater and more commonly male than female. Many patients are diagnosed with swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin, or an enlarged spleen, which may cause fullness under the left rib cage or abdominal pain.

The cause(s) of MCL are unknown. The stage of MCL can vary at diagnosis and throughout treatment. Stages of MCL include stage I, II, III, or IV. Although therapies are usually given with curative intent, many times the lymphoma returns within 1 – 2 years. Stem cell transplant and combined, multi-drug therapies are usually more effective than single medications.

Medications for MCL may include intravenous infusions, oral tablets or capsules, or a combination of IV and oral medications. Patients may be diagnosed with MCL without having any symptoms. Others may go to their doctor with symptoms of swollen lymph nodes, a large spleen, or decreased appetite. The effectiveness of the treatment may depend upon the stage at diagnosis.

NOTE: Treatment Options listed below are not all-inclusive. Other treatments may be available. ChemoExperts provides drug information and does not recommend any one treatment over another. Only your Doctor can choose which therapy is appropriate for you.