A plain-language overview of MCL written specifically for patients and caregivers.
Newly Diagnosed
Now What?
You just received a diagnosis you weren't prepared for. Here is where to begin.
Before We Begin
If you were recently diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma, you may be feeling overwhelmed. That's normal.
Over the next few weeks and months, you will hear terms such as pathology reports, flow cytometry, FISH testing, TP53 mutations, Ki-67, blastoid, pleomorphic, and many others. Right now, those words may feel confusing and intimidating.
You do not need to understand everything today.
The purpose of this section is not to turn you into a lymphoma expert overnight. It is simply to help you gather and organize the information that will be important later as you learn more about your disease and discuss treatment options with your healthcare team.
Take your time. Read only what feels helpful. Come back when you're ready.
Many patients tell us that the terminology eventually becomes familiar. What feels like a foreign language today will make much more sense over time.
New to MCL?
Start Here First
- 1 Read the NCCN Patient Guide
- 2 Watch Dr. Anita Kumar: Initial Treatment for MCL 2026
A clear, approachable video explanation of what MCL is and what to expect.
- 3 Join a trusted support community
Connect with patients and caregivers who understand what you're going through.
- 4 Return here when you're ready to organize your records
A guide to the documents and test results you'll want to gather and understand over time.