Malignant lymphoma in the mesentery with immune thrombocytopenia

A 69-year-old man was referred to our hospital for further evaluation of an abdominal mass. After admission, he was suspected of having a malignant mesenteric tumor. Laboratory data disclosed thrombocytopenia with increased levels of platelet-associated immunoglobulin G. On surgery, the tumor involved the ileal mesentery, invading the urinary bladder and mucosal surface of the terminal ileum. The diagnosis of mesenteric lymphoma with immune thrombocytopenia was made. Complete remission was obtained after surgery and the subsequent three courses of combination chemotherapy. However, thrombocytopenia still persisted. This rare presentation is discussed with a review of the available literature.