Diffuse large b cell lymphoma

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in adults, accounting for approximately 30-40% of all cases. It is a fast-growing, aggressive form of lymphoma, which is a cancer of the lymphatic system.

Overview

DLBCL originates in the B cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system. The term "diffuse" refers to the fact that this cancer can arise in lymph nodes throughout the body, not just in one location. The "large" refers to the size of the cancerous cells, and "B cell" refers to the type of cell from which the cancer originates.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of DLBCL include fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss, collectively known as B symptoms. Other symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, and a feeling of fullness due to an enlarged spleen or liver. The most common sign of DLBCL is a painless swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin, which is caused by enlarged lymph nodes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of DLBCL typically involves a biopsy of an enlarged lymph node. The biopsy sample is examined under a microscope to look for the presence of large B cells. Other tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as CT scan or PET scan, and a bone marrow biopsy to see if the cancer has spread to the bone marrow.

Treatment

Treatment for DLBCL usually involves chemotherapy, often in combination with a type of drug called a monoclonal antibody. The most commonly used treatment regimen is called R-CHOP, which stands for Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used.

Prognosis

The prognosis for DLBCL varies widely and depends on several factors, including the patient's age, overall health, and the stage of the disease at diagnosis. With treatment, approximately half of all patients with DLBCL can be cured.

See also

• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• B cells
• Lymphatic system
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy