Yes, it is possible for B-cell lymphoma to affect the colon and rectum. This is known as colorectal lymphoma, and the majority of gastrointestinal lymphomas involve B cells specifically.
The most common types of B-cell lymphoma found in the colon include:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) — the most frequently seen Show Full Answer
Yes, it is possible for B-cell lymphoma to affect the colon and rectum. This is known as colorectal lymphoma, and the majority of gastrointestinal lymphomas involve B cells specifically.
The most common types of B-cell lymphoma found in the colon include:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) — the most frequently seen type
- Mantle cell lymphoma
- Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma
- Follicular lymphoma
- Burkitt lymphoma Having inflammatory bowel conditions is actually listed as a risk factor for developing colorectal lymphoma, so it's worth discussing any new or changing symptoms with a care team promptly.
Symptoms of colorectal lymphoma can be general and easy to overlook, so staying in close contact with a lymphoma specialist is really important here. If colorectal lymphoma is found, treatment options can include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor (especially in early stages)
- Chemotherapy, commonly the CHOP regimen
- Targeted therapy such as rituximab (Rituxan), which may be added if the lymphoma tests positive for the CD20 protein
Always speak with a lymphoma specialist to explore the best treatment path based on individual circumstances.
May 28
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