Evaluation of 35 cases of abdominal lymphoma

Abdominal lymphoma is not a common clinical entity in Bangladesh. Still, in our Clinical practice we come across such problem occasionally. Because of their rarity and variable unusual behaviour, such case may present a major challenge even to experienced clinicians. Thirty five cases are reported in this series of which 29 were male and 6 were female (M:F = 4.8:1). Cases were collected from BSMMU, DMCH, MMCH, different clinics of Dhaka. Mean age was 36.7 years. Out of 35 cases 20(57.15%) had primary abdominal lymphoma, 08(22.85%) had secondary lymphomatous involvement, 07(20%) were cases of nodal lymphomas with or without superficial lymphnode involvement. All patients presented with gastrointestinal symptoms with or without an abdominal lump. Duration of symptoms of these patients ranged from 03 months to 02 years. In only 02 patients a clinical diagnosis of lymphoma was made pre-operatively. Various operative procedures were performed according to circumstances. Most common site of involvement was small intestine followed by large intestine, mesenteric lymphnodes, rectum and stomach. Among 35 cases, 28(80%) were Non-Hodgkin's, lymphoma 05(14.28%) were Hodgkin's and lymphoma 2(5.71%) were unclassified. All of the patients were referred to oncologist. Some of the patients received chemotherapy. The patients were followed up for a variable period. This study showed that abdominal lymphoma has a good prognosis provided diagnosed and treated early.