Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) takes part to a group of cancers which affect the lymphatic system. This diseases are known as non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. The immune system is a part of the lymphatic system. It's role is to protect the body against agents that can determine infection and disease. It is represented by a network of tubular channels called lymph vessels that drain a fluid with a watery aspect known as lymph. Lymph is drained from different areas of the body into the bloodstream. It accumulates in the tiny spaces between tissue cells and contains proteins, fats, and certain white blood cells called lymphocytes.

Lymph circulates through the lymphatic system and it is filtered by small structures called lymph nodes. This filtering helps to remove microorganisms (e.g., viruses, bacteria, etc.) and other foreign bodies that can affect the human body. The lymph nodes are organized in groups and they are located throughout the body, including the neck, under the arms, at the elbows, and in the chest, abdomen, and groin. In the lymphatic nodes are stored the white blood cells called lymphocytes. They may also be found in other lymphatic tissues. The lymphatic system includes mot only the lymphatic nodes, but also the spleen and the tonsils. The role of the spleen is to filter worn-out red blood cells and produces lymphocytes. The tonsils helps to fight infection too. Lymphatic tissues also include the thymus. It is a relatively small organ located behind the breastbone. It is thought to play an important role in the immune system until puberty. Another important role in the imune system is played by the bone marrow, which is the spongy tissue inside the cavities of bones. The bone marrow produces blood cells. Lymphatic tissue and circulating lymphocytes can also be found in other regions of the body, such as the skin, small intestine, liver, and other organs. There are two main types of lymphocytes: B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytess. The B- lymphocytes produces specific antibodies in order to destroy certain invading microorganisms The T-lymphocytes destroy directly the microorganisms or helps the activities of other lymphocytes.

The cause of Mantle cell lymphoma and of the other cancers of the lymphatic system called lymphomas is represented by the errors that can occur in the production of a lymphocyte. This kind of errors determine the lymphocyte to transform into a malignant cell. If there is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth and multiplication of malignant lymphocytes it may lead to the enlargement of a lymph node region or even regions. The malignant process can involve the spleen and bone marrow and spread to other tissues and organs. The results of the malignant proliferation are specific complications that threaten the life of the patient.. The symptoms and physical findings are different from case to case. They depend on the extent and region or regions involved and on different other factors.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are considered to be lymphomas caused by abnormal B-lymphocytes and or derived from abnormal T-lymphocytes. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell lymphoma that develops from malignant B-lymphocytes which can be observed in a region of the lymph node called the mantle zone. The Non- Hodgkin's lymphoma may also be described considering certain characteristics of the cancer cells which can be seen under a microscope. it is very important how rapid is their tendance to grow and spread. Non- Hodgkin's lymphoma can be considered a low- grade lymphoma The malignant cells tend to grow and spread slowly. There are few associated symptoms. There are also "intermediate-" or "high-grade" lymphomas in which the malignant cells grow rapidly. This forms require prompt treatment. Experts have classified MCL as an aggressive lymphoma, even if there are some aspects of indolent lymphoma.

According to various studies MCL affects men over the age of 50 years. Many affected patients have widespread disease at diagnosis, with involved regions including multiple lymph nodes, the spleen, and sometimes the bone marrow, the liver, and even regions of the gastrointestinal tract.