Diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma presenting as Sister Joseph's nodule
Related Experiment Videos
1Department of Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, St. Andrew's Place, East Melbourne, Vic. 3002, Australia.
Abstract:
Traditionally associated with intra-abdominal epithelial tumours, umbilical metastases (known eponymously as "Sister Joseph's nodules") are often thought to represent advanced malignancy with dismal prognosis. Lymphomas are rare causes of umbilical metastases, with no cases reported prior to 1966 and only three cases since. We describe a patient who presented with diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with "signet ring" morphology manifesting as a "Sister Joseph's nodule", who had an excellent response to systemic therapy, with no detectable disease at 12 months post-completion of therapy. Our experience with this patient highlights the need for accurate histological diagnosis in all umbilical metastases, and dispels the widely held assumption that "Sister Joseph's nodules" represent disseminated malignancy beyond the realm of effective therapy. The patient's unusual histology and pattern of disease involvement are also discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Secondary Lymphoid Organs
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...
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...
Lymphoid Cells and Tissues
Lymphoid cells consist of various types of immune system cells. These include B and T lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies and killing infected cells, respectively. Dendritic cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive...
Abnormal Proliferation
Abnormal Proliferation
Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes
From a histological perspective, lymph nodes can be split into two main areas: the superficial cortex and the deep medulla. The outer cortex is populated by dendritic cells, macrophages, and B lymphocytes, which are densely packed into follicles. When these B-lymphocytes are presented...