Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Enhancing Tumor Content through Tumor Macrodissection
Published on: February 12, 2022
Venous thromboembolism in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Rami S Komrokji1, Nikhil P Uppal, Alok A Khorana
1Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0501, USA. komrokrs@ucmail.uc.edu
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) affects 12.8% of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients, often at diagnosis or during initial chemotherapy. This complication is linked to significantly worse survival outcomes in DLBCL patients.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a known complication in cancer patients, but its frequency in DLBCL requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of VTE in patients diagnosed with DLBCL.
- To identify risk factors associated with VTE in DLBCL.
- To assess the impact of VTE on survival in DLBCL patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 211 DLBCL patient records from 1990-2001 at a tertiary care hospital.
- Exclusion of patients with transformed lymphoma, CNS lymphoma, HIV-related lymphoma, or incomplete records.
- Identification of symptomatic VTE events confirmed by imaging, occurring at diagnosis or during initial treatment.
Main Results:
- VTE occurred in 12.8% (27/211) of DLBCL patients.
- High International Prognostic Index (IPI) scores were associated with increased VTE risk; Stage I disease showed low risk.
- VTE was present at diagnosis in 37% and occurred during the first three chemotherapy cycles in 82% of affected patients.
- Median survival was significantly lower for patients with VTE (1.04 years) compared to those without (5.2 years).
Conclusions:
- VTE is a frequent complication in DLBCL, particularly occurring at diagnosis and during early chemotherapy.
- VTE in DLBCL patients is associated with a poorer prognosis and reduced survival.
- Risk stratification using factors like IPI may help identify DLBCL patients at higher risk for VTE.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Primary Lymphoid Organs
The red bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue nestled in the interior of long bones such as the humerus and femur. It is the site...
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management