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Updated: May 22, 2026
10:52
Tumor Engraftment in a Xenograft Mouse Model of Human Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Published on: March 30, 2018
[Malignant lymphoma presenting as inflammation of unknown origin]
Hiroyuki Yamashita1, Yuko Takahashi, Toshikazu Kano
1Division of Rheumatic Diseases, National Center for Global Health and Medicine.
Summary
Malignant lymphoma (ML) is a leading cause of unexplained inflammation in rheumatology. Early diagnosis is aided by imaging and skin biopsies, especially for Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL).
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Hematology
Context:
- Inflammation of unknown origin is frequently encountered in rheumatology divisions.
- Malignant lymphoma (ML) can present with fever of unknown origin, mimicking rheumatic diseases.
- Distinguishing ML from other inflammatory conditions is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose:
- To classify underlying diseases presenting as inflammation of unknown origin within a rheumatology division.
- To determine the frequency and diagnostic challenges of malignant lymphoma in this setting.
- To evaluate the utility of imaging and biopsy techniques in diagnosing ML.
Summary:
- A 5-year review of 246 patients with undiagnosed inflammatory diseases identified malignant lymphoma (ML) as the most common cause (20 cases).
- Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) was noted, often presenting with fever, B symptoms, hypoxemia, and hemophagocytic syndrome.
- 18-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) aided biopsy site selection, and random skin biopsies were diagnostic in some IVLBCL cases.
- Laboratory findings in lymphoma patients included thrombocytopenia, elevated LDH, and sIL-2R; high ferritin was characteristic of IVLBCL.
Impact:
- Malignant lymphoma (ML) is the primary cause of inflammation of unknown origin in rheumatology settings.
- FDG-PET/CT is valuable for guiding biopsies in suspected ML cases.
- Clinical features and random skin biopsies are effective for the rapid diagnosis of IVLBCL.
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