diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Definition of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

(dih-FYOOS larj ... sel lim-FOH-muh)
A term used to describe a group of fast-growing B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) in which the cancer cells look large when viewed under a microscope. Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas are the most common type of NHL and are marked by rapidly growing tumors in the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, bone marrow, or other tissues and organs. Signs and symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, drenching night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss. Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas can occur at any age but are more common in older adults. They may sometimes be called by the more general term, large B-cell lymphoma.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms