Cell Lymphoma — What It Is, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Cell lymphoma is cancer that starts in the white blood cells called lymphocytes. Not all lymphomas behave the same — some grow slowly and need little or no immediate treatment, while others are aggressive and need quick action. Knowing the type changes everything, so getting the right diagnosis matters.
Types and common signs
The two big groups are B‑cell and T‑cell lymphomas. B‑cell types (like diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma or follicular lymphoma) are the most common. T‑cell lymphomas are rarer and can act differently. Signs to watch for include painless swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, persistent fever, and unusual fatigue. If symptoms last more than a few weeks, see your doctor.
Some lymphomas start in a single area and cause local symptoms — for example, a mass under the arm or in the neck — while others are widespread and cause general symptoms. Skin changes, breathing trouble, or gut problems can show up depending on where the lymphoma is.
How doctors diagnose and stage it
Diagnosis usually needs a lymph node biopsy — a small piece of tissue looked at under a microscope. Blood tests, CT or PET scans, and bone marrow checks often follow to see how far it has spread. Staging tells you how advanced the disease is and helps pick the right treatment.
Don’t be surprised if your team recommends tests across several specialties. A hematologist/oncologist who treats blood cancers is the main specialist to consult. If you’re unsure, ask about a second opinion before starting treatment.
Treatment depends on the type and stage. Options include active surveillance for slow-growing forms, chemo combinations like R‑CHOP for many B‑cell lymphomas, targeted drugs, monoclonal antibodies (rituximab for many B‑cell types), radiation for local disease, and newer immune approaches such as CAR‑T cell therapy for certain relapsed cases. Clinical trials also offer access to new drugs.
Side effects vary by treatment. Chemo can cause fatigue, nausea, and low blood counts; targeted drugs often have different profiles. Ask your team about side‑effect prevention, reporting symptoms early, and supportive care like growth factors, anti‑nausea meds, and infection prevention.
Practical things to ask your doctor: What exact subtype do I have? What stage is it? What are my treatment choices and goals? What are the likely side effects and how will they be managed? Should I consider fertility preservation or a clinical trial? Who is on my care team?
Getting a clear diagnosis, a specialist opinion, and a written treatment plan helps you stay in control. Bring a friend to appointments, take notes, and don’t hesitate to ask for plain‑language explanations. New treatments have improved outcomes, so explore options and stay connected with support groups or patient navigators for practical help and reassurance.