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I just finished 6 treatments of Pola-R-CHP treatment and my PET Scan came back showing still active DLBCL in my large tumors.

A MyLymphomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Port Orange, FL

Does anyone know what the best follow-up treatment is to kill the remaing cancer. The original tumor was very large and it has reduced to one fourth its original size, so it appears that the original treatment did have some effect on the tumor. Do they resume the Pola-R-CHP or will they try something else. What is the best option if any of you have gone through the same experience.

November 28, 2025
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MyLymphomaTeam

What are the best follow-up treatment options after Pola-R-CHP doesn't achieve complete response?

It's encouraging that your tumor has shrunk significantly, even though active DLBCL remains. When first-line treatment like Pola-R-CHP doesn't eliminate all cancer, doctors typically move to second-line therapies rather than Show Full Answer

What are the best follow-up treatment options after Pola-R-CHP doesn't achieve complete response?

It's encouraging that your tumor has shrunk significantly, even though active DLBCL remains. When first-line treatment like Pola-R-CHP doesn't eliminate all cancer, doctors typically move to second-line therapies rather than repeating the same regimen.

The most common second-line options include:

Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant
This is often the preferred approach for eligible patients. Your doctor will likely use high-dose salvage chemotherapy followed by transplanting your own healthy bone marrow cells back into your body.

Alternative Chemotherapy Combinations
If you're not eligible for transplant, options may include:
- Polatuzumab vedotin with bendamustine and/or rituximab
- Gemcitabine plus oxaliplatin (GemOx) with or without rituximab
- Tafasitamab plus lenalidomide

Radiation Therapy
Since you mentioned large tumors, radiation might be recommended, especially if your largest tumor is over 7.5-10 centimeters (bulky disease).

Your oncologist will create a personalized plan based on your specific situation, overall health, and eligibility for different treatments. It's important to discuss all options with your care team soon.

November 28, 2025

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