Cell-free DNA as a biomarker in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: A systematic review

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), which is DNA released from cells into the circulation, is one of the most promising non-invasive biomarkers in cancer. This approach could be of interest for the management of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) patients, which is the most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Then, the aim of this systematic review was to define the utility of cfDNA in this disease. Selected articles were classified in four groups, depending on the aspects of cfDNA studied, i.e. concentration, methylation, IgH gene rearrangements, and somatic mutations. While concentration and methylation of cfDNA need to be further analyzed, IgH gene rearrangements and somatic mutations seem to be the most promising biomarkers to date. Their detection has been shown to allow disease monitoring and early prediction of relapse. Although more efforts and standardization of techniques are needed, studying cfDNA in liquid biopsy may help improve the outcome of DLBCL patients.