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Updated: Sep 12, 2025

Morphological and Functional Assessment of the Right Ventricle Using 3D Echocardiography
Published on: October 28, 2020
Primary Cardiac Lymphoma Presenting as a Right Ventricular Mass With Outflow Obstruction: A Diagnostic-Therapeutic
Barilee B Abueh1, Sana Rashid2, Mohammad Alsheikh-Kassim2
1Internal Medicine Department, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.
Background:
Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is an exceedingly rare malignant non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It represents <2% of primary cardiac tumors often with nonspecific symptoms that may delay diagnosis.
Case Summary:
An 83-year-old woman with hypertension and hypothyroidism presented with progressive dyspnea and fatigue. The initial differential diagnosis was concerning for pulmonary embolism or right-heart failure. Echocardiography revealed a 6 × 7-cm right ventricular mass causing right ventricular outflow tract obstruction and right-sided heart failure. Computed tomography confirmed the presence of a mass, and biopsy identified CD20+ B-cell lymphoma. After a multidisciplinary discussion, she was started on high-dose corticosteroids with subsequent chemotherapy with R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone).
Discussion:
This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of PCL in the elderly and underscores the necessity of early multimodality imaging and coordinated care. A review of the literature shows that prompt recognition and treatment are essential for improving outcomes in this rare malignancy.
Take-Home Message:
Early diagnosis via comprehensive imaging and biopsy along with a multidisciplinary approach for management are all crucial steps in early detection and treatment of PCL, particularly in elderly patients.
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