Overview

B-Cell Lymphoma is a type of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) that starts in B-lymphocytes—white blood cells responsible for producing antibodies and protecting the body from infections.

B-cell lymphomas can range from slow-growing (indolent) to aggressive (fast-growing) types. With modern therapies, including R-CHOP chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and precision radiotherapy, outcomes have improved dramatically.

At I D Cancer Center, we provide complete lymphoma care—from accurate diagnosis to advanced treatment—with a patient-friendly, empathetic approach.

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Common Types of B-Cell Lymphoma

1. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)

Most common; fast-growing but highly treatable.

2. Follicular Lymphoma

Slow-growing; long-term control is achievable.

3. Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Moderately aggressive; needs specialized therapy.

4. Burkitt Lymphoma

Very fast-growing; requires urgent treatment.

5. Marginal Zone / MALT Lymphoma

Associated with chronic inflammation or infections.

6. Primary Mediastinal B-Cell Lymphoma

Occurs in younger adults; responsive to immunochemotherapy.

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Causes & Risk Factors

Although exact causes are unknown, risk factors include:

• Age > 55 years

• Male gender

• Family history of lymphoma

• Weakened immune system

• Autoimmune disorders

• Chronic infections (H. pylori, Hepatitis C)

• Exposure to pesticides or toxins

B-cell lymphoma is not contagious.

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Symptoms of B-Cell Lymphoma

Symptoms vary depending on type and location.

Common Symptoms

• Painless swelling of lymph nodes

• Persistent fever

• Night sweats

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue

• Recurrent infections

• Cough or breathlessness (if chest nodes involved)

• Abdominal pain/fullness (if spleen enlarged)

• Skin rashes or itching

If symptoms persist for more than 2–3 weeks, early evaluation is essential.

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Diagnosis at I D Cancer Center

Accurate diagnosis and subtype identification are crucial for treatment.

1. Physical Examination

• Lymph node evaluation

• Symptom assessment

2. Laboratory Tests

• CBC

• LDH levels (disease activity marker)

• Viral markers (HIV, Hepatitis)

3. Imaging

• PET-CT Scan (gold standard for staging)

• CT scan

• Ultrasound

4. Tissue Diagnosis

• Excisional lymph node biopsy (best method)

• Core biopsy (selected cases)

• Bone marrow biopsy for staging

5. Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Identifies B-cell type and aggressiveness:

• CD20, CD19

• BCL-2, BCL-6

• Ki-67 (proliferation index)

• MYC rearrangement (aggressive variants)

6. Molecular Testing

• FISH studies (MYC, BCL-2, BCL-6)

• NGS panel in selected cases

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on subtype, stage, age, and overall health.

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⭐ 1. Chemotherapy

Most B-cell lymphomas respond very well to chemo.

Common regimen:

• R-CHOP (Rituximab + CHOP)

For aggressive types:

• DA-EPOCH-R

• Hyper-CVAD

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⭐ 2. Targeted Therapy

Attacks cancer cells specifically.

• Rituximab (CD20-targeted)

• Ibrutinib / Acalabrutinib (BTK inhibitors)

• Venetoclax

• Lenalidomide

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⭐ 3. Immunotherapy

Highly effective for relapsed disease:

• Pembrolizumab

• Nivolumab

• CAR-T cell therapy (selected cases)

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⭐ 4. Radiation Therapy

At I D Cancer Center, radiotherapy is delivered using:

• IMRT

• IGRT

• VMAT

Used for:

• Early-stage disease

• Residual masses

• Bulky lymph nodes

• Symptom control (pain, compression)

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⭐ 5. Stem Cell Transplant

For relapsed or high-risk B-cell lymphoma:

• Autologous transplant

• Allogeneic transplant

We coordinate with national transplant centres while providing complete guidance.

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Living with B-Cell Lymphoma

We support patients throughout their recovery:

• Regular PET-CT and blood monitoring

• Nutrition & immunity guidance

• Infection prevention

• Exercise and rehabilitation

• Psychological & family counselling

• Fertility counselling (for younger patients)

• Survivorship plans

Many B-cell lymphoma patients achieve long-term remission and return to normal life.