Pharmacotherapy of large B-cell lymphoma.

Background: Constituting approximately 30% of lymphoid malignancies, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common aggressive lymphoma in adults worldwide. The clinical and biologic heterogeneity that exists in DLBCL suggests that this entity might actually be comprised of several distinct neoplasms that could require different therapeutic approaches. DLBCL was considered incurable until combination chemotherapy became available.

Objective: Current treatment strategies for the treatment of untreated and relapsed advanced-stage DLBCL are reviewed; novel treatments for DLBCL are discussed.

Methods: Relevant literature was identified using the PubMed search engine and by reviewing abstracts from major conference proceedings.

Results/conclusion: Recently, novel therapeutic strategies, including the incorporation of immunotherapy to combination chemotherapy, have improved outcome for patients with DLBCL with cure rates exceeding 50%, especially in younger patients.