Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While the exact cause of DLBCL remains unknown, certain factors can increase your risk. This article addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about DLBCL, empowering you with essential knowledge.
The precise cause of DLBCL is still under investigation. However, some risk factors may play a role:
No, DLBCL is not contagious and cannot be passed on to others.
DLBCL arises when B-cells (infection-fighting white blood cells) mutate. These mutations cause the B-cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming cancer cells. DLBCL is aggressive and can spread quickly if left untreated.
DLBCL is not an inherited disease, but having a first-degree relative with any type of lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can increase your risk of developing DLBCL by 9%.
Lymphoma, including DLBCL, can originate anywhere in the body where lymphocytes (white blood cells that fight infections) reside. These are primarily found in lymph nodes, the spleen, and bone marrow.
Common symptoms of DLBCL include:
DLBCL is considered curable with treatment, boasting a 73% five-year survival rate. However, if left untreated, life expectancy is less than a year.
The most advanced stage of DLBCL is stage 4, where the cancer has spread beyond the lymph nodes to at least one organ. Symptoms at this stage can include:
Stage 4 DLBCL is considered the most advanced stage, but it's not necessarily terminal. The overall five-year survival rate for stage 4 DLBCL is 71%. Treatment options are available, and with advancements in medicine, these numbers continue to improve.
Learn more about lymphoma and DLBCL with the free resources available at HealthTree University for DLBCL, and sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest treatment advances and patient webinars.
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Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While the exact cause of DLBCL remains unknown, certain factors can increase your risk. This article addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about DLBCL, empowering you with essential knowledge.
The precise cause of DLBCL is still under investigation. However, some risk factors may play a role:
No, DLBCL is not contagious and cannot be passed on to others.
DLBCL arises when B-cells (infection-fighting white blood cells) mutate. These mutations cause the B-cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming cancer cells. DLBCL is aggressive and can spread quickly if left untreated.
DLBCL is not an inherited disease, but having a first-degree relative with any type of lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can increase your risk of developing DLBCL by 9%.
Lymphoma, including DLBCL, can originate anywhere in the body where lymphocytes (white blood cells that fight infections) reside. These are primarily found in lymph nodes, the spleen, and bone marrow.
Common symptoms of DLBCL include:
DLBCL is considered curable with treatment, boasting a 73% five-year survival rate. However, if left untreated, life expectancy is less than a year.
The most advanced stage of DLBCL is stage 4, where the cancer has spread beyond the lymph nodes to at least one organ. Symptoms at this stage can include:
Stage 4 DLBCL is considered the most advanced stage, but it's not necessarily terminal. The overall five-year survival rate for stage 4 DLBCL is 71%. Treatment options are available, and with advancements in medicine, these numbers continue to improve.
Learn more about lymphoma and DLBCL with the free resources available at HealthTree University for DLBCL, and sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest treatment advances and patient webinars.
SUBSCRIBE TO HEALTHTREE FOR DLBCL NEWSLETTER
Sources:
about the author
Lisa Foster
Lisa Foster is a mom of 3 daughters, a puzzle lover, a writer, and a HealthTree advocate. She believes in the mission of the foundation and the team that builds it forward. She calls Houston, Texas home.
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