What Are the Treatments for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma?
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. It is the most common form of lymphoma, according to UpToDate.com. Over half of patients can be cured, according to the site.
Advanced
Advanced cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma are usually treated with a combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy, according to UpToDate.com. The most common treatment involves six to eight cycles of five chemotherapy drugs.
Localized
Patients with localized cases of this condition can often be treated with only three cycles of chemotherapy. This is combined with radiation therapy in the affected area.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy X-rays to stop or slow tumor growth. This treatment is commonly given five days a week for three to four weeks, according to UpToDate.com.
Chemotherapy Side Effects
Chemotherapy may cause fever, nausea, or vomiting. Flushing, fever, and back pain may occur the first time the chemotherapy drugs are given.
Follow-Up
Patients will be given a full medical checkup a month after treatment to check for traces of the disease. Frequent visits to the doctor to check for relapse are recommended.
Tags: according UpToDate, chemotherapy drugs, Diffuse Large, large B-cell, most common