What Influences the Outcomes of Follicular Lymphoma Patients?

Follicular lymphoma is the most common slow-growing lymphoma affecting adults today. In the U.S., approximately 14,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, with a median age at diagnosis in the early 60s. 

Analyzing the risk factors contributing to follicular lymphoma is essential to better understanding how to prevent its progression. Clinical studies, in addition to looking for new treatment options, also help researchers understand other aspects of diseases. That’s why a recent study analyzed patient data from eight clinical trials, totaling 2,428 patients with follicular lymphoma. Although this is still a small sample compared to the number of newly diagnosed patients each year, the findings offer valuable insights into the risk factors influencing patient outcomes.

What Did the Study Analyze?

The two-year study obtained data from 2,428 patients with the following results: 

• 26.5% of patients experienced disease progression within two years

• 3.4% of patients passed from follicular lymphoma

• 1.4% of patients passed away from other causes

• The primary cause of death for patients is the lymphoma itself or the adverse events associated with therapy

• Prolonged disease-free survival is still achieved by a considerable proportion of patients with follicular lymphoma, who face risks based on other chronic illnesses and age.

What Contributes to Follicular Lymphoma Progression? 

This study highlights the importance of understanding clinical factors at diagnosis that can help predict disease progression and survival outcomes. The findings shed light on the need for personalized treatment planning based on the following risk factors:

Physical factors

• Gender: Male patients, with more than four affected lymph nodes, are more likely to have disease progression

• Age and health status: Patients older than 70 years old and patients with comorbidities had an increased risk of death from both lymphoma and other causes. 

Abnormal Blood tests

These include LDH, hemoglobin and β2-microglobulin, all explained below. 

• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): it is an inflammation marker in blood; when elevated, it can increase the risk of disease progression

• Low hemoglobin is also associated with a higher risk 

• Increased β2-microglobulin levels face a higher risk of progression

What Prevents Follicular Lymphoma Progression? 

The study analysis also found factors that helped prevent follicular lymphoma progression; one of them is rituximab therapy, a CD20-targeting agent, which significantly reduced progression risks by 71%, decreased deaths from follicular lymphoma to 95%, and reduced 87% deaths for other causes.

While there is no absolute cure yet for follicular lymphoma, there are treatments that can effectively manage the disease and improve quality of life. Treatment options depend on the stage and symptoms, ranging from watchful waiting to therapies like rituximab or chemotherapy like R-CHOP or bendamustine.  

Participating in clinical trials accelerates research and prevents progression. When a patient’s progression can be tracked through various treatment circumstances, the information obtained is essential for assessing long-term outcomes in follicular lymphoma patients.

Why Is Analyzing Risk Important to Me as a Follicular Lymphoma Patient? 

Analyzing your risk as a follicular lymphoma patient is important because recognizing your specific risk factors can guide you in seeking early medical attention and exploring personalized treatment options with your healthcare team. 

Understanding your risks may also help you identify and qualify for clinical trials offering additional treatment opportunities. By discussing these factors with your healthcare team, you can make informed decisions, which can significantly influence the progression of the disease and improve your overall outcomes.

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Source: 

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11265299/