Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and atypical neck pain: A case report

Neck pain is a common reason for seeking medical attention. It affects at least 15% of the labor force and up to 40% of individuals whose occupation is hazardous. On the other hand, primary bone lymphoma is a very rare disease (less than 1% of all malignant bone tumors), and the relationship between the 2 has rarely been mentioned. We report the case of a patient who had a 1-month history of neck pain. The main symptom was pain on palpation of C2-C6 cervical spinous processes and contracture of the trapezius muscle that did not cease with conventional treatment. Imaging studies indicated an abnormality. He underwent surgery and the results of vertebral biopsy were compatible with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. He was treated with radiotherapy with a good outcome.