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Published on: March 30, 2018
Primary Hepatic EBV-DLBCL Lymphoma in the Setting of COVID-19 Infection
Luisa Maria De Souza1, Mohamed Ismail1, Menna-Allah Elaskandrany2
1Department of Internal Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School University Hospital, Newark, NJ.
Insights
This case study details a rare primary hepatic diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in a patient with a history of prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It highlights the potential link between COVID-19 and solid tumor development, urging further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Primary hepatic DLBCL, originating in the liver, is exceptionally rare.
- Recent research explores potential links between viral infections and cancer development.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old male presented with fatigue and weight loss.
- Diagnostic workup revealed elevated liver enzymes and multiple low-density liver lesions.
- The patient had a history of prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) four months prior to symptom onset.
Findings:
- Liver biopsy with immunohistochemical analysis confirmed primary hepatic diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
- This case represents a rare instance of DLBCL presenting solely within the liver.
- The temporal association suggests a possible, though unconfirmed, role of COVID-19 in DLBCL development.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering COVID-19 as a potential factor in the emergence of solid tumors.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the relationship between COVID-19 and oncogenesis.
- Increased awareness and documentation of such cases are vital for understanding long-term health consequences of COVID-19.
Abstract:
This case study describes an instance of primary hepatic diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in a patient who had prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). DLBCL rarely presents as a primary hepatic mass. The 53-year-old man sought emergency care because of fatigue and weight loss. Diagnostic tests showed mildly elevated liver enzymes and imaging pointed to several low-density liver lesions. A liver biopsy paired with immunohistochemical testing verified the DLBCL diagnosis. Notably, the patient had COVID-19 4 months before the liver-related symptoms. The link between COVID-19 and the emergence of solid tumor cancers is unclear, but this case underscores its potential significance and the need for further research. This report stresses the importance of recognizing and documenting instances where COVID-19 might influence the onset of solid tumor cancers, including primary hepatic DLBCL.
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