Stage IV Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma Presenting with Unilateral Vision Loss

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Neurology
• Oncology

Background:

• Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) is a low-grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and a common presentation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
• Malignant lymphocytes in SLL typically infiltrate lymph nodes and bone marrow.
• Neurological manifestations in SLL/CLL are uncommon but can occur.

Observation:

• This report focuses on a patient diagnosed with stage IV SLL.
• The patient presented to the emergency room with acute neurological symptoms.
• These symptoms were attributed to the underlying SLL.

Findings:

• The case highlights the potential for SLL to manifest with acute neurological deficits.
• It underscores the importance of considering SLL in the differential diagnosis of unexplained neurological presentations.

Implications:

• This case broadens the understanding of SLL/CLL symptomatology.
• It may prompt earlier diagnostic considerations for neurological presentations in patients with or at risk for SLL/CLL.
• Further research into the mechanisms of neurological involvement in SLL/CLL is warranted.