Aetiology
Epstein-Barr virus-positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma (EBV-DLBCL) of the elderly is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that affects older adults. It is caused by a virus known as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) which is a type of herpes virus that is often associated with infectious mononucleosis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of EBV-DLBCL of the elderly is based on a combination of clinical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging, and biopsy. Laboratory tests may include complete blood count, serum chemistry tests, and urine analysis. Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) may be used to evaluate the extent and location of the disease. A biopsy of an affected lymph node is usually required to definitively diagnose EBV-DLBCL of the elderly.
Differential diagnosis
Differential diagnosis of EBV-DLBCL of the elderly includes other types of NHL such as follicular lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma, as well as other causes of enlarged lymph nodes such as infections and autoimmune conditions.
Treatment
Treatment of EBV-DLBCL of the elderly typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or immunotherapy. The chemotherapy regimen may include cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP). Radiation therapy may be used to treat localized disease and targeted therapies may be used in some cases.
Prognosis
The prognosis for EBV-DLBCL of the elderly is dependent on the stage and extent of the disease at the time of diagnosis. With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis is generally good. However, advanced stages of the disease may have a poorer prognosis.