Duodenal plasmablastic lymphoma in an human immunodeficency virus-negative patient: a case report

Plasmablastic lymphoma is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that generally presents an aggressive clinical course. It is strongly associated with human immunodeficency virus (HIV) infection, and the most common site of involvement is the oral cavity. Although extraoral PBL has been reported in several places, small intestine involvement is extremely rare.

Here, we describe an exceptionally rare case of a 24-year-old immunocompetent Asian Male patient with newly diagnosed plasmablastic lymphoma of the duodenum. The patient was admitted to our oncology facility due to the patient's clinical course, which included persistent vomiting, hematemesis, weight loss, and generalized weakness. Computed tomography of the abdomen (triphasic) of the patient showed thickness at the 2nd part of the duodenum measuring 2.6 cm in width and 16 cm in length blocking the pancreatic and common bile ducts by entering the second section of the duodenum. The biopsy specimen's pathological investigation indicated abnormal cells with plasmacytoid characteristics and a high proliferation index. The diagnosis of PBL was confirmed by immunohistochemical profiling. Supportive therapies like blood transfusions, antacids, and antiemetics were started to manage the patient's symptoms. Palliative radiation was also anticipated for the lesion site.

Duodenal involvement to the extent seen in our patient is exceptionally rare and, to the best of our knowledge, has hardly been described. The main goal of the article is to review the literature and report a case.