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Plasmablastic lymphoma in an elderly immunocompetent patient
Makoto Takeuchi1, Fumi Ogawa, Tetsuo Onishi
1Department of Pathology, Ikeda Municipal Hospital, Ikeda, Japan. mkt_take@mch.pref.osaka.jp
Pathology International
|April 25, 2012
Summary
Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is a rare oral cancer. This case study highlights PBL in an immunocompetent patient, emphasizing its distinct features for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- It predominantly affects HIV-positive individuals or those with immunodeficiency.
- PBL is characterized by plasmablastic morphology and plasma cell immunophenotype.
Observation:
- A case of a 75-year-old, HIV-negative, EBV-negative patient with an oral cavity mass is presented.
- Histopathology revealed a monotonous proliferation of large, undifferentiated cells.
- Immunohistochemistry showed CD138 and EMA positivity, with negativity for CD45 and B cell antigens.
Findings:
- The oral mass was diagnosed as Plasmablastic Lymphoma (PBL).
- This diagnosis was made despite the absence of HIV/EBV infection and immunocompromise.
- The patient received chemotherapy and has persistent disease after 3 years.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of PBL presentation.
- It underscores the importance of considering PBL in the differential diagnosis of oral lesions, even in immunocompetent individuals.
- Awareness of PBL's unique morphology and immunophenotype is crucial for timely and accurate diagnosis.