Has anyone with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) experienced symptoms returning shortly after being told they're cancer-free?
Yes, this does happen. Research shows that about one-third of people who achieve complete remission after first-line treatment will experience their DLBCL returning within two years. In one Show Full Answer
Has anyone with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) experienced symptoms returning shortly after being told they're cancer-free?
Yes, this does happen. Research shows that about one-third of people who achieve complete remission after first-line treatment will experience their DLBCL returning within two years. In one study, 67 percent of people experiencing a relapse had symptoms when it was diagnosed.
The symptoms that return are often similar to what you experienced before your initial diagnosis. The most common signs of relapse include:
* Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes (painless lumps under the skin)
* B symptoms: night sweats, fever, and unexplained weight loss of at least 10 percent of body weight
* Fatigue and weakness
It's important to know that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, medications, or side effects from treatment. Night sweats might be from hormone therapy or menopause. Fevers could indicate an infection. Weight loss might be related to thyroid issues or diabetes.
If you're experiencing new symptoms after remission, reach out to your oncology team right away. They can order tests like biopsies, imaging, and bloodwork to determine what's causing your symptoms and whether it's a relapse.
January 3