MCL is a B cell malignancy with unique biological, pathological and clinical features, comprising 3–10% of all non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) (Swerdlow et al, 1983). It was recognised as a specific entity in the revised European‐American classification of lymphoid neoplasms (REAL) classification (Harris et al, 1994) and is characterized by the chromosomal translocation t(11;14)(q13·3;q32·33), which results in overexpression of the cell cycle protein cyclin D1 (Akiyama et al, 1994; Campo et al, 1999).

Declaration of Interests

The BSH paid the expenses incurred during the writing of this guidance. None of the authors had conflicts of interest to declare. All authors have made a declaration of interests to the BSH and Task Force Chairs which may be viewed on request.