What is the chromosomal abnormality often seen in follicular lymphoma?

Follicular lymphoma is commonly associated with the chromosomal translocation t(14;18). This specific translocation involves the BCL2 gene located on chromosome 18 and the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus on chromosome 14. The result of this genetic rearrangement leads to the overexpression of the BCL2 protein, which inhibits apoptosis (programmed cell death). The inappropriate survival of B cells due to this anti-apoptotic effect allows for the accumulation of these cells in lymphoid tissue, thus contributing to the development of lymphoma.

Understanding the role of BCL2 in this context is crucial. Normal lymphocytes undergo a life cycle that typically includes programmed cell death; however, in the presence of the translocation, B cell survival is prolonged, allowing for the proliferation of neoplastic cells. This mechanism is a key factor in the pathogenesis of follicular lymphoma and highlights why this particular chromosomal abnormality is indicative of the disease.

Other chromosomal abnormalities listed pertain to different types of hematological malignancies. For instance, t(9;22) is associated with chronic myeloid leukemia and some acute leukemias, t(8;14) is characteristic of Burkitt lymphoma, and t(15;