Understanding Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Large B-cell lymphoma, also known as diffuse large b-cell lymphoma, causes abnormal growth in red blood cells. In its malignant form, this cancer spreads rapidly throughout the body, making immediate treatment crucial. Chemotherapy and antibodies may cure or slow the disease if administered in time.

Malignancy

• HealthScout defines a malignancy as a type of cancer that spreads quickly and uncontrollably into surrounding tissues.

Lymphoma

• The Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF) defines lymphoma as a form of cancer that attacks white blood cells, or lymphocytes, causing them to grow abnormally.

Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma

• The LRF states that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma attacks a particular type of cell called a B lymphocyte. Malignant lymphoma grows very aggressively.

Treatment

• Doctors must treat diffuse large B-cell lymphoma quickly, according to the LRF. Treatment with chemotherapy and an antibody called Rituxan may cure the disease or keep it from spreading.

Relapse

• Patients whose lymphoma reoccurs may benefit from bone marrow or stem-cell transplantation procedures, according to the LRF. They may also wish to participate in clinical studies on new experimental drugs.