What is large cell lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a malignant neoplasm found in the lymphatic system, specifically in lymphocytes. The common cells that show malignancy in lymphoma are B cells or B lymphocytes and T cells or T lymphocytes. These lymphocytes are responsible for destroying any pathogens that enter the body and memorizing them for faster destruction the next time they invade the system. . Lymphoma is subdivided into Hodgkin’s lymphoma (formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The main difference between the two is the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are commonly found in Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Large cell lymphoma is a type of lymphoma classified as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This aggressive type of lymphoma tends to affect B cells more than T cells. Large cell lymphoma is so named because the malignant cells in this category are larger compared to the malignant cells in other types of lymphoma. Due to its similarity to Burkitt’s lymphoma, careful morphological and clinical studies must be carried out to avoid giving the wrong type of treatment.
The cause of this disease is unknown. However, viral infections such as HIV/AIDS and the Epstein-Barr virus are known risk factors for developing this condition. Exposure to radiation during cancer treatment may pose a risk of developing secondary lymphoma.
The signs and symptoms of large cell lymphoma are:
– Swollen and painless lymph nodes
– Anemia fatigue
– Anorexy
– Night sweatshirts
– Unexplained weight loss
– unexplained fever
After reviewing the medical history and physical exam, a lymph node biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis of large cell lymphoma. This is done by taking a sample of tissue through minor surgery and studying it under a microscope. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, several laboratory tests are performed, such as imaging studies (X-Rays, PET Scan, CT-Scan, Ultrasound) and blood tests to classify the disease.
Treatment of large cell lymphoma is based on staging. A combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy is the usual treatment used for lymphoma. The drugs usually have Rituxan, cytoxan, oncovin and prednisone, a combination of immunotherapy, chemotherapy and steroids. This is done during the aggressive stage of large cell lymphoma. Once the disease has entered its relapse stage, ICE or DHAP are used. Stages I and II are treated with local radiation therapy, although radiation therapy is also given along with chemotherapy once the large cell lymphoma is in the late stage. Bone marrow transplantation is performed as a form of aggressive treatment as a last attempt to combat the disease. Research is still being done to fully understand the cause of large cell lymphoma so that proper treatment can be given without putting too much stress on the body from the aggressive effects of medication.
