What is diffuse large B cell lymphoma?
Diffuse large B cell lymphoma, or "DLBCL," is a type of lymphoma. Lymphoma is a cancer of lymphocytes, which are infection-fighting cells of the body's lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is made up of organs all over the body that make and store cells that fight infection
When people have DLBCL, their lymphocytes become abnormal and grow out of control. These cells can travel to different parts of the body. Often, the abnormal cells collect in small, bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes. This causes the lymph nodes to swell.
DLBCL is a common type of lymphoma. It usually happens in older people. It grows quickly, so it needs to be treated quickly.
What are the symptoms of DLBCL?
Most people with DLBCL first notice 1 or more swollen lymph nodes. These swollen nodes are often in the neck, groin, or belly. They can sometimes be felt under the skin, but they are usually not painful.
People with DLBCL can also have:
Is there a test for DLBCL?
Yes. Your doctor or nurse will talk with you and do an exam. They will also do:
What is lymphoma staging?
Lymphoma staging is a way in which doctors find out how far the lymphoma has spread in the lymphatic system or in the body. The right treatment for you depends a lot on the stage of your lymphoma.
To find out how far your DLBCL has spread, your doctor will do an exam, blood tests, and an imaging test, such as a CT or PET scan. Imaging tests create pictures of the inside of the body.
Your doctor might also do a bone marrow biopsy. For this test, a small sample of bone marrow (the tissue in the center of bones) is examined under a microscope to check for lymphoma.
How is DLBCL treated?
People with DLBCL are usually treated with:
All people with DLBCL get chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Some people also get radiation therapy.
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