[A case of peripheral T cell lymphomas-unspecified in vertebra canal]

Peripheral T cell lymphomas-unspecified (PTCL-U) is an uncommon malignant tumor, accounting for 5%-7% of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Clinical feature of a case of PTCL-U was investigated and the optimal treatment protocol was proposed. The clinical presentation of this case was progressing limbs weakness with sudden paralysis. Multiple superficial lymph nodes swelling and decreased sensation in all modalities below T10 level were found in physical examination. Bilateral leg paralysis (Grade 0/5) with high muscle tension, overactive knee reflex, bilateral Babinski sign (+) were present. Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) showed the mass, which was around spinal cord located in T6-T8 vertebra canal, with intense enhancement after the administration of gadolinium diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid. Abnormal signal in multiple centrum and accessories could also be found in MRI scan. Initial diagnosis was lymphoma, multiple systems involved. Laminectomy and epidural tumor resection were performed immediately. The dural sac was narrowed obviously by surrounding tumor. The result of pathological examination was PTCL-U. After operation, the level of pain sensation was descent, and touch sensation recovered. The patient received chemotherapy and his muscle strength was partly recovered in 4 months. Early diagnosis of peripheral T cell lymphomas-unspecified was difficult and easily misdiagnosed with poor prognosis. A review of literature showed central nervous system lesions occurred in advanced stage. However, the report of representation of intraspinal mass as initial symptom like the case was rare. For acute paraplegia, laminectomy and tumor resection should be performed as soon as possible. Regular radiotherapy and chemotherapy should be considered after operation. However, the value of local chemotherapy need to be further investigated.