Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with pulmonary and cerebral involvement: A case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Hematology
• Neurology

Background:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Lung and central nervous system (CNS) involvement in DLBCL is uncommon.
• DLBCL often presents with non-specific symptoms, potentially delaying diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of primary DLBCL with concurrent pulmonary and CNS involvement.
• To detail the clinical, radiological, and histological features of this presentation.
• To assist physicians in recognizing and diagnosing pulmonary and CNS involvement in DLBCL.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 42-year-old male with HIV infection.
• Diagnostic procedures included thoracic CT, brain MRI, percutaneous lung needle biopsy, and PET scan.
• Clinical presentation involved dry cough, chest pain, fever, and headache.

Main Results:

• Diagnosis of DLBCL confirmed via lung biopsy.
• CT revealed multiple pulmonary masses.
• MRI showed nodules in the left frontal cortex and bilateral basal ganglia.
• PET scan indicated widespread DLBCL involvement.

Conclusions:

• Concurrent pulmonary and CNS involvement in DLBCL is rare but possible, even in primary cases.
• Integrated diagnostic imaging and biopsy are essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Awareness of these rare presentations can improve patient outcomes.