Slow-growing lymphomas are a type of cancer that develops from lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that form part of the immune system. The two main types are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Slow-growing lymphomas, or indolent lymphomas, are a subgroup of NHLs that are generally associated with a better prognosis than other lymphomas.
Types of Slow-Growing Lymphomas
The most common type of slow-growing lymphoma is follicular lymphoma (FL), which accounts for about 25-30% of all NHLs. FL is a type of B-cell lymphoma, which means that the cancer originates from B-cells, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. FL tends to affect older adults and is usually found in the lymph nodes in the neck, chest, abdomen, and groin.
Other types of slow-growing lymphomas include marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL), and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). MZL is usually found in the lymph nodes in the neck, chest, abdomen, and groin, and is associated with a good prognosis. LPL is a rare type of lymphoma that usually affects older adults, and is usually found in the spleen and lymph nodes. SLL is a type of B-cell lymphoma that is usually found in the lymph nodes in the neck, chest, abdomen, and groin, and is associated with a good prognosis.
Treatment for Slow-Growing Lymphomas
Treatment for slow-growing lymphomas depends on the type of lymphoma and the extent of the disease. Some people may not require any treatment, while others may need chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. For some people, a stem cell transplant may be recommended. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option with a healthcare provider before making a decision.