Systemic capillary leak syndrome revealing a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Area of Science:

• Hematology and Oncology
• Nephrology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Systemic capillary leak syndrome (SCLS) is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of hypotension, anasarca, and hemoconcentration.
• SCLS can lead to multi-organ failure, including acute kidney injury, and is often associated with hematological malignancies.
• Distinguishing SCLS from other causes of shock and edema is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A 75-year-old woman presented with recurrent hypotension, anasarca, renal failure, and hypoalbuminemia without proteinuria.
• Clinical presentation was highly suggestive of SCLS.
• Further investigations revealed an underlying diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Findings:

• The patient's symptoms were attributed to secondary SCLS.
• The association between diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and SCLS was confirmed.
• This case underscores the importance of considering hematological malignancies in SCLS diagnosis.

Implications:

• Early recognition of SCLS in patients with lymphoma can improve outcomes.
• This case contributes to the understanding of paraneoplastic syndromes.
• Further research into the mechanisms linking lymphoma and SCLS is warranted.