Mediastinal (thymic) large B cell lymphoma

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What is Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma?

Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system and can be subdivided into Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system that helps fight infection. It is composed of various organs e.g. lymph nodes, thymus (in the mediastinum - behind the breastbone), spleen and bone marrow. These are connected by a network of tiny lymphatic vessels.

Lymph is a colourless fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system. It contains lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that fight infection. There are 2 types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells. Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma is a cancer of B cells.

Mediastinum is between the breast bone and the back bone. It is the space in the chest that contains all the organs of the chest (heart, oesophagus, trachea, thymus and some large vessels) except the lungs and pleurae (the layer covering the lungs). Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma arises from the thymus (a lymphatic organ in the lymphatic system) in the mediastinum.

Who gets Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma?

Mediastinal large B cell lymphoma makes up about 2-6% of all lymphomas.

The majority of patients are very young - around 30 years when they are diagnosed.

It is slightly more common in females than in males - this is opposite of other types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Predisposing Factors

The cause is unknown.

It does not run in families or occur because of genetic changes.

There does not seem to be a relation to toxic agents.

It is non-infectious and cannot be passed on to other people.

Progression

This is a tumour that grows very quickly and causes symptoms in the chest as described below. It is usually localised (confined to an area) when patients come to the doctor.

It requires prompt treatment.

If the disease comes back, it has often spread to other organs such as the liver, kidneys or brain.

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