Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)

Why choose us for DLBCL care?

What you need to know about DLBCL

DLBCL is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in adults, comprising around 30% to 40% of cases. It can occur at any age but is more common in older adults.

DLBCL is a cancer of the B cells that develops in the lymphatic system. It is characterized by large, abnormal B cells that grow rapidly and can spread to other parts of the body.

Like many cancers, early detection and diagnosis can improve outcomes for DLBCL. It’s essential to pay attention to any persistent symptoms and promptly consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate testing if needed

How to talk to your doctor about DLBCL

Preparation:
- Gather medical records and relevant documents.
- Write down questions and concerns.
Honesty and Openness:
- Share symptoms and medical history.
- Express any worries or uncertainties.
Questioning:
- Ask about DLBCL, its treatments, and side effects.
- Inquire about prognosis, clinical trials, and impact on daily life.
Clarification:
- Request explanations for any unclear information.
- Seek further details on treatments or procedures.
Preferences Discussion:
- Share treatment preferences and concerns.
- Collaborate on a treatment plan aligned with personal goals.
Support Person:
- Consider bringing a trusted companion for assistance and emotional support.
Follow-Up:
- Schedule any necessary appointments or tests.
- Adhere to treatment instructions and recommendations.

Effective communication with your doctor ensures comprehensive understanding and personalized care for managing DLBCL.

Types

Germinal Center B-cell-like (GCB) DLBCL:
- Originates from germinal center B cells.
- Generally better prognosis.
- Responds well to standard chemotherapy.
Activated B-cell-like (ABC) DLBCL:
- Originates from activated B cells.
- Generally poorer prognosis.
- More aggressive and resistant to treatment.
Primary Mediastinal B-cell Lymphoma (PMBL):
- Arises in the thymus.
- Generally good prognosis.
- Affects young adults, especially women.
T-cell/Histiocyte-rich DLBCL:
- Sparse B cells in a background of T cells and histiocytes.
- Intermediate prognosis.
- Presents with widespread disease.
Intravascular DLBCL:
- Lymphoma cells found within blood vessels.
- Poor prognosis due to difficulty in early detection.
Primary Effusion Lymphoma:
- Occurs in body cavities.
- Poor prognosis, related to immune suppression.
- Presents with effusions without solid tumors.
Double-hit and Triple-hit DLBCL:
- Genetic abnormalities involving MYC and BCL2 and/or BCL6 genes.
- Very aggressive with a poor prognosis.
Primary CNS Lymphoma:
- Confined to the brain, spinal cord, or eyes.
- Variable prognosis, challenging to treat due to location.
- Presents with neurological symptoms.
Primary Cutaneous DLBCL, Leg Type:
- Affects the skin, particularly the legs.
- Intermediate prognosis.
- Presents with skin lesions, mainly in older adults.
ALK-positive DLBCL:
- Rare subtype with ALK gene rearrangements.
- Generally poor prognosis due to aggressive behavior.
- More common in younger patients.

Causes

Lymphadenopathy:
- Swollen lymph nodes, often painless, in the neck, armpit, or groin.
B Symptoms:
- Fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.
Fatigue:
- Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
Pain or Swelling:
- Abdominal pain or swelling due to enlarged lymph nodes or organs.
Chest Pain or Respiratory Issues:
- If lymph nodes in the chest are affected.

Symptoms

Lymphadenopathy:
- Swollen lymph nodes, often painless, in the neck, armpit, or groin.
B Symptoms:
- Fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.
Fatigue:
- Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
Pain or Swelling:
- Abdominal pain or swelling due to enlarged lymph nodes or organs.
Chest Pain or Respiratory Issues:
- If lymph nodes in the chest are affected.

Diagnosis

Physical Examination:
- Doctor checks for swollen lymph nodes and other signs.
Imaging Tests:
- CT scans, PET scans, or MRI to detect the extent and location of the disease.
Biopsy:
- Removal and examination of a lymph node or other affected tissue to confirm the presence of DLBCL.
Blood Tests:
- To assess overall health and organ function.
Bone Marrow Biopsy:
- To check if the lymphoma has spread to the bone marrow.

Treatment

Chemotherapy:
- Primary treatment, often using a regimen called R-CHOP (Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone).
Radiation Therapy:
- Used in certain cases, especially when the disease is localized.
Targeted Therapy:
- Drugs like rituximab target specific proteins on the surface of B cells.
Stem Cell Transplant:
- Considered for relapsed or refractory DLBCL, involving high-dose chemotherapy followed by infusion of healthy stem cells.
Clinical Trials:
- Participation in trials for new treatments or combinations of therapies.