Key takeaways

• B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma develops when B cells mutate and multiply abnormally, accounting for roughly 85% of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in the United States, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma being the most frequently diagnosed subtype.

• Common warning signs include swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpit; unexplained weight loss; persistent fatigue; and night sweats, though symptoms vary depending on where the cancer develops in the body.

• Treatment approaches range from chemotherapy and radiation therapy to immunotherapy and stem cell transplants, with the specific plan tailored to the lymphoma subtype, disease stage, and individual patient factors.

All forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) begin in lymphocytes. These white blood cells play an important role in the immune system. B cells help fight infections that attack the body. B-cell NHLs cause abnormal lymphocytes to grow. Over time, the cells may form tumors throughout the body.

Around 85% of NHLs in the United States are B-cell lymphomas, making them the most common type of NHL. There are many different types of B-cell NHLs. The most common of these is diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). After DLBCL, follicular lymphomas make up most cases of B-cell NHLs.

This article will review what causes non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas, how to diagnose them, and available treatment options.

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There are many different types of NHL. All forms of this cancer involve the development of abnormal lymphocytes in the lymphatic system. These cells can develop in the lymph nodes or lymphatic tissues.

B-cell NHL occurs when cells called B cells undergo mutations. A crucial part of the immune system, B cells are responsible for creating antibodies against infections.

There are several different forms of B-cell NHL. Some of the most common forms include:

  • diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
  • follicular lymphoma
  • mantle cell lymphoma
  • small lymphocytic lymphoma
  • chronic lymphocytic leukimia
  • marginal zone lymphomas

Around a third of B-cell NHL cases are DLBCL. People with this form of lymphoma may notice lumps in the neck, groin, or armpit. Cancerous cells within the lymph nodes cause painless swelling behind these growths.

Most cases of DLBCL occur in people over the age of 60. This type of lymphoma grows quickly and requires rapid treatment.

Follicular lymphoma comprises 20 to 30% of all lymphomas. This type of B-cell NHL grows more slowly than others. It may also cause swelling of lymph nodes throughout the body. People with follicular lymphoma can live with the disease for many years since it typically progresses slowly.

Each type of B-cell NHL causes unique symptoms that vary from person to person.

The symptoms of B-cell NHL vary from person to person and depend on the type of cancer.

Some of the more common DLBCL symptoms include:

  • rapidly growing, painless swelling (often in the neck, armpit, or groin)
  • night sweats
  • fevers that come and go
  • sudden and unexplained weight loss
  • itching

Some symptoms may be location-specific. For example, lymphomas that begin in the abdominal region may be painful or cause diarrhea and bleeding during bowel movements. Lymphomas in the chest can cause a cough or make breathing difficult.

Other general symptoms of NHL can also include:

  • chills
  • fatigue
  • abdominal swelling
  • enlarged lymph nodes

People experiencing these symptoms should visit a medical professional. A doctor can perform a complete evaluation and determine whether symptoms are a sign of B-cell NHL.

B cells play a crucial role in creating antibodies to protect the body from infections. When those cells mutate or experience damage, they can become cancerous. When this happens, the mutated cells reproduce and spread throughout the body.

The reason why specific cells undergo these mutations is still poorly understood. However, scientists have identified risk factors that might make a person more likely to develop B-cell NHL, such as:

  • older age (most cases occur in people over 60)
  • being male
  • having a family history of NHL
  • prior exposure to radiation or certain chemicals
  • a weakened immune system
  • autoimmune disease
  • certain infections, such as human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1)

In the United States, B-cell NHL is diagnosed more often in White people than in other racial or ethnic groups. Researchers believe this reflects a combination of genetic, environmental, and healthcare-related factors rather than a single cause.

The first step in diagnosing NHL is visiting a doctor for a physical exam. If a doctor suspects NHL, they may refer the person to a specialist for further testing.

A person may undergo a biopsy of a swollen lymph node. This process involves removing a small sample of tissue and testing it for cancer cells.

A biopsy can help determine whether cancer is present and identify the type of cancer. Once they have a diagnosis, a doctor can recommend an individualized treatment plan.

There are many different treatments available to treat B-cell NHL. The right treatment depends on the person and the type of lymphoma they have. Treatment options may include:

  • chemotherapy
  • radiation therapy
  • immunotherapy
  • targeted therapy, such as monoclonal antibodies

Choosing the right treatment also depends on the stage of the disease. People seeking B-cell NHL treatment should speak with a healthcare professional to learn more about their options.

Non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in damaged B cells and affects the lymphatic system. There are several different forms of this disease. The most common include DLBCL and follicular lymphoma.

Experts do not know exactly what causes B-cell NHL. People may be more likely to develop this condition if they have risk factors such as a family history of NHL.

Treatment options are available, and people living with B-cell NHL should work with medical professionals to find the right treatment for their needs.