R-CHOP is the standard first-line treatment for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It's a combination of five drugs, and the name is simply an acronym for each one:
- R — Rituximab, an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system target lymphoma cells
- C — Show Full Answer
R-CHOP is the standard first-line treatment for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It's a combination of five drugs, and the name is simply an acronym for each one:
- R — Rituximab, an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system target lymphoma cells
- C — Cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapy drug that damages cancer cell DNA
- H — Doxorubicin (hydroxydaunorubicin), a chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells
- O — Vincristine (formerly Oncovin), a chemotherapy drug that interferes with cancer cell growth
- P — Prednisone, a steroid that reduces inflammation and helps kill cancer cells Treatment is typically given in 6 cycles, once every 21 days, though early-stage cases may require fewer cycles. All drugs except prednisone are given intravenously (through a vein). Prednisone is taken as a tablet. As for success rates, R-CHOP is quite effective for many people:
- It cures roughly 60%–70% of newly diagnosed DLBCL cases
- About 30%–40% of relapsed cases also respond well
- However, around 30%–40% of people don't respond as well, either because the cancer is resistant or comes back after initial treatment
If R-CHOP isn't suitable — for example, due to age or other factors — doctors may recommend adjusted versions like R-miniCHOP (lower doses) or R-EPOCH (a more aggressive option). Always discuss with your care team which approach is best for your specific situation.
May 1
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