Primary Hepatic Lymphoma Masquerading as Symptomatic Hypercalcemia

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Primary hepatic lymphoma is an exceptionally rare malignancy.
• It predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals, typically over the age of 50, with a male predilection.
• Diagnosis is often challenging due to non-specific liver mass lesions and normal tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein.

Observation:

• This report details an unusual case of primary liver lymphoma.
• The patient was an elderly, immunocompetent female.
• She presented with symptomatic hypercalcemia, an atypical initial manifestation.

Findings:

• The case presented is unique due to the patient's immunocompetent status and advanced age.
• Symptomatic hypercalcemia was the presenting clinical feature.
• This contrasts with the typical demographic and presentation of primary hepatic lymphoma.

Implications:

• This case expands the clinical spectrum of primary hepatic lymphoma.
• It underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in elderly patients with unusual symptoms.
• Further research may elucidate specific risk factors or unique biological behaviors in immunocompetent hosts.