Relapsed Large B-cell Lymphoma
Relapsed Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Relapsed large B-cell lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops in the white blood cells when the cancer cells return or "relapse" after initial treatment. It typically affects the lymph nodes and various organs within the body. It is the most common form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, accounting for around 30% of all lymphoma cases.
When a person has relapsed large B-cell lymphoma, doctor’s may be able to diagnose it based on symptoms, physical exams, imaging tests, and lab tests. These tests help doctors identify the size and location of the tumor. Following the initial diagnosis, the next step is to determine the stage of the disease, which is based on the size of the tumor as well as the results of any biopsies that have been taken.
Common treatments for relapsed large B-cell lymphoma include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant. The decision on which treatment to use depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors such as the person’s age and overall health.
The treatment typically begins with chemotherapy and, depending on the results, may include further treatments with radiation or a stem cell transplant in order to reduce the risk of the cancer recurring. Radiation therapy is used to target specific areas that are affected by the cancer, while stem cell transplants are used after chemotherapy to replace damaged bone marrow that has been affected by the cancer.
In addition to medical treatments, it is also important for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise, and avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol can all help to reduce the risk of the cancer recurring.
Symptoms
Symptoms of relapsed large B-cell lymphoma vary from person to person and can include:
- Fatigue
- Sweating
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Pain in the bones or joints
- Loss of appetite
Risk Factors
There are several known risk factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing relapsed large B-cell lymphoma. These include:
- Age – relapsed large B-cell lymphoma is more common in elderly people
- HIV/AIDS – people with HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, including relapsed large B-cell lymphoma
- Exposure to chemotherapy and radiation therapy – people who have been treated with chemotherapy or radiation for other conditions may be more likely to develop certain types of cancer, including relapsed large B-cell lymphoma
- Exposure to certain chemicals and substances – exposure to certain chemicals and substances such as solvents and pesticides may increase the risk of certain cancers, including relapsed large B-cell lymphoma
- Immune system disorders – people with weakened immune systems may be at a higher risk of certain types of cancer, including relapsed large B-cell lymphoma