Epidemiology of Monoclonal B-Cell Lymphocytosis Study

Monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL) is considered a precursor lesion of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This precursor lesion involves an abnormality of lymphocytes that may increase the risk of developing a blood or lymph node cancer.

Family history

People with a family history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia are about eight times more likely to develop CLL than are people without a family history of CLL. In addition, people with a family history of CLL are also more likely to have MBL. For example, monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis appears in almost 18% of people who have two or more relatives with CLL or a similar blood disorder. Research suggests that there's a strong connection between CLL, MBL and having a family history of CLL or other type of blood and lymph node cancer.

About the study

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential connections between monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis and blood and lymph node disorders, including CLL, in people with MBL. To do this, our research team is collecting blood samples from participants at several time points during the length of the study. This process allows us to evaluate the change in MBL characteristics over time, along with genetics related to MBL.

Participation in the study includes:

  • Completing a questionnaire about lifestyle factors, personal medical history and demographic information.
  • Donating a small amount of blood, about 4 tablespoons (59 ml). For convenience, our lab can send a kit that you can take to your local clinic or health care provider for the blood draw. The blood draw can also be done at Mayo Clinic if preferred.
  • Donating a sample of saliva. A kit is mailed to you with all the items to collect the sample.
  • Providing permission with written informed consent to access, for research purposes only, any medical records related to care for blood or lymph node cancer or related conditions.
  • Updating information and samples. Every three years, we contact study participants for a new blood sample and to complete a short questionnaire.