Dramatic radiotherapy response in a necrotic lymphoma mass: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Hematology

Background:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma, known for its aggressive progression.
• Lymphomas generally exhibit radiosensitivity, allowing for effective disease control with radiation therapy.
• Current guidelines lack consensus on radiotherapy use for DLBCL, particularly in elderly patients unfit for systemic therapy.

Observation:

• A 97-year-old female presented with a rapidly progressing, necrotic neck mass.
• Diagnostic investigations confirmed stage 1A DLBCL.
• The patient received palliative radiotherapy at a dose of 25 Gray in five fractions.

Findings:

• The patient experienced a complete resolution of the neck mass within four months post-treatment.
• No residual symptoms were reported, indicating significant disease burden reduction.
• The palliative radiotherapy resulted in durable local control.

Implications:

• Palliative radiotherapy can achieve dramatic and durable local control in elderly patients with early-stage DLBCL.
• This treatment modality significantly improves quality of life by reducing disease burden.
• The case highlights the potential of radiotherapy as a palliative option for patients ineligible for systemic therapy.