Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in adults. While less frequent, DLBCL can also affect adolescents and young adults (AYA), typically defined as those between 15 and 39 years old. This guide explores key information about DLBCL in AYA patients, including its incidence, treatment approaches, and unique challenges.
DLBCL is less common in AYA compared to adults, accounting for approximately 5-10% of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in this age group. However, it's still the most frequent aggressive lymphoma diagnosed in AYA patients.
Racial disparities exist in DLBCL incidence among AYA. A recent study indicates that Black adolescents and young adults have a higher incidence of DLBCL compared to their White counterparts. Understanding these disparities is crucial for improving early diagnosis and treatment access for all AYA patients.
While the core principles of DLBCL treatment are similar for adults and AYA, there are some key differences. AYA patients are more likely to receive dose-intensive chemotherapy regimens like R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone). These intensive approaches aim for high cure rates but can also lead to a higher risk of side effects.
Several unique challenges are associated with treating DLBCL in AYA:
Despite the challenges, AYA patients with DLBCL often have better overall survival rates compared to adults diagnosed with the disease. This may be due to factors like their generally good health status and response to treatment. Still, some AYA patients may require stem cell transplantation as part of their treatment plan. While transplant outcomes are generally favorable in AYA, there is still a risk of serious complications associated with the procedure. Examples of these complications include:
Here are some additional factors to consider for DLBCL in AYA patients:
HealthTree for DLBCL can help you navigate these options, connect you with other patients, and provide helpful resources to help you understand your disease and your treatment options. Join our DLBCL community today!
Sources:
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in adults. While less frequent, DLBCL can also affect adolescents and young adults (AYA), typically defined as those between 15 and 39 years old. This guide explores key information about DLBCL in AYA patients, including its incidence, treatment approaches, and unique challenges.
DLBCL is less common in AYA compared to adults, accounting for approximately 5-10% of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in this age group. However, it's still the most frequent aggressive lymphoma diagnosed in AYA patients.
Racial disparities exist in DLBCL incidence among AYA. A recent study indicates that Black adolescents and young adults have a higher incidence of DLBCL compared to their White counterparts. Understanding these disparities is crucial for improving early diagnosis and treatment access for all AYA patients.
While the core principles of DLBCL treatment are similar for adults and AYA, there are some key differences. AYA patients are more likely to receive dose-intensive chemotherapy regimens like R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone). These intensive approaches aim for high cure rates but can also lead to a higher risk of side effects.
Several unique challenges are associated with treating DLBCL in AYA:
Despite the challenges, AYA patients with DLBCL often have better overall survival rates compared to adults diagnosed with the disease. This may be due to factors like their generally good health status and response to treatment. Still, some AYA patients may require stem cell transplantation as part of their treatment plan. While transplant outcomes are generally favorable in AYA, there is still a risk of serious complications associated with the procedure. Examples of these complications include:
Here are some additional factors to consider for DLBCL in AYA patients:
HealthTree for DLBCL can help you navigate these options, connect you with other patients, and provide helpful resources to help you understand your disease and your treatment options. Join our DLBCL community today!
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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