follicular lymphoma
Also written as: FL — follicular lymphoma
An indolent B-cell lymphoma characterized by a follicular growth pattern and typically following a slowly progressive clinical course.
Full Definition
Follicular lymphoma is the second most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and the most common indolent lymphoma. It is characterized by a follicular (nodular) growth pattern composed of centrocytes and centroblasts. The malignancy arises from germinal center B cells and typically presents with painless lymphadenopathy and bone marrow involvement. Most cases are associated with the t(14;18) translocation involving BCL2. The disease follows an indolent course with a pattern of remission and relapse, and while incurable with conventional therapy, patients often have prolonged survival. Treatment approaches include watchful waiting for asymptomatic disease and immunochemotherapy for symptomatic cases.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from follicular hyperplasia, a benign reactive condition.
In Context
- "The patient's follicular lymphoma was managed with watchful waiting given the absence of symptoms." — treatment plan
- "Grading showed follicular lymphoma grade 2 with a low proliferative index." — pathology report