Large cell immunoblastic lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by the presence of large, abnormal cells in the lymph nodes and other organs. It is a high-grade or aggressive form of lymphoma, meaning it grows rapidly and spreads quickly.
The term "large cell" refers to the size of the cancerous cells. These cells are typically larger than normal lymphocytes and have a high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, meaning the nucleus takes up a significant portion of the cell. Additionally, "immunoblastic" indicates that the cells are actively producing proteins involved in the immune response.
The lymphoma is commonly seen in adults, but it can also occur in children and adolescents. It is often associated with immunodeficiency states, such as HIV infection or organ transplantation, but can also develop in individuals with a normal immune system. Common symptoms of large cell immunoblastic lymphoma include enlarged lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue.
The diagnosis of large cell immunoblastic lymphoma is confirmed through a combination of physical examination, medical history analysis, blood tests, imaging studies (such as CT scans and PET scans), and a lymph node biopsy. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, sometimes in combination with radiation therapy or stem cell transplantation, depending on the extent of the disease and the individual's overall health.
Prompt and appropriate treatment is crucial for large cell immunoblastic lymphoma, as it is an aggressive type of lymphoma. With advances in therapy, the prognosis has improved over the years, but it greatly depends on several factors such as the stage of the disease, the patient's age, and overall health.
