HIV-associated peripheral T-cell lymphoma with a cytotoxic phenotype

Most human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related lymphomas are of B-cell origin, and the T-cell type is very rare. We experienced a Japanese case of HIV-associated peripheral T-cell lymphoma (HIV-PTCL). Sudden intestinal hemorrhage necessitated emergent surgical resection of the small intestine, in which an ulcerative lesion was detected. A histopathological examination revealed large tumor cells in the base of the ulcer, which were immunohistochemically CD30(+), CD56(+), granzyme B(+), CD3(+) (focally), CD4(-), CD8(-) and EBER(+). A diagnosis of PTCL, not otherwise specified, was therefore made. The differential diagnosis and significance of Epstein-Barr virus infection are also herein discussed.