Which are the symptoms of Mantle Cell Lymphoma?

Symptoms of Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that primarily affects the lymph nodes. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of B-cells in the mantle zone of the lymph nodes. MCL often presents with a variety of symptoms that can vary from person to person.

Enlarged Lymph Nodes: One of the most common symptoms of MCL is the presence of enlarged lymph nodes. These swollen lymph nodes are usually painless and can be felt in the neck, armpits, or groin. In some cases, the lymph nodes may form a visible lump under the skin.

B Symptoms: B symptoms are systemic symptoms that may indicate more advanced disease. These symptoms include:

• Fever: Persistent or recurrent fever without any apparent cause.


• Night Sweats: Profuse sweating, often drenching the bedclothes, during the night.


• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss of more than 10% of body weight over a period of six months or less.

Fatigue: Many individuals with MCL experience extreme fatigue and a lack of energy. This fatigue can be debilitating and may interfere with daily activities.

Abdominal Discomfort: MCL can cause enlargement of the spleen, liver, or both. This can lead to abdominal discomfort, pain, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some individuals with MCL may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or indigestion. These symptoms can be caused by lymphoma involvement in the gastrointestinal tract.

Bone Marrow Involvement: MCL can spread to the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in the production of healthy blood cells. This can result in anemia, which may cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Additionally, a decrease in platelets can lead to easy bruising and bleeding, while a decrease in white blood cells can increase the risk of infections.

Skin Lesions: In some cases, MCL can cause the development of skin lesions. These lesions may appear as red or purple patches, nodules, or tumors on the skin.

Other Symptoms: Less commonly, individuals with MCL may experience symptoms such as chest pain, cough, difficulty breathing, bone pain, or neurological symptoms if the lymphoma has spread to other organs or tissues.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Only a medical expert can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.