Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can be high-grade (fast-growing) or low-grade (slow-growing).

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Over 10,000 people are diagnosed with a type of NHL every year in the UK. Around one in three have diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is more common in older people and rarely seen in children.

Learn more about diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

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We don’t know exactly what causes DLBCL, but some factors make it more likely, including:

• age
• sex
• family history
• Infections

Read more about causes of DLBCL

The main symptom of DLBCL is swollen lymph glands in your neck, armpit or groin. A range of tests will be used to confirm whether you have DLBCL, and help doctors decide how to treat it.

More about DLBCL symptoms and diagnosis

The main treatment for DLBCL is chemotherapy. Sometimes treatment involves radiotherapy too.

Read more about DLBCL treatment and side effects

Most people with DLBCL go into remission after standard treatment with chemotherapy, meaning there's no sign of lymphoma left in their body. Some people will need further treatment.

Find more on the prognosis for DLBCL

Clinical trials are how we find new treatments and improve current ones. We can help you find out about clinical trials for DLBCL. Even if you just want to know a bit more about DLBCL research, try our Clinical Trials Support Service.

Our research in lymphoma has focused on improving treatments. Read about our scientific impact on lymphoma.