Primary Splenic Nodular Lymphocyte Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma (NLPHL): First Reported Case in a Young Child

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Pediatric Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) is a rare B-cell lymphoma, typically indolent and affecting lymph nodes.
• Splenic involvement in NLPHL often indicates advanced disease and a poorer prognosis.
• Primary splenic NLPHL, especially in pediatric cases without nodal involvement, is exceptionally uncommon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first known case of primary splenic Nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma in a child.
• To highlight the potential for favorable outcomes in pediatric primary splenic NLPHL following splenectomy.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing a pediatric patient diagnosed with primary splenic NLPHL.
• Review of clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, treatment (splenectomy), and follow-up.
• Pathological confirmation of NLPHL in splenic tissue.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with isolated splenic involvement, lacking overt nodal disease.
• Following splenectomy, the child remains disease-free at 3-year follow-up without requiring additional therapy.
• This outcome contrasts with the generally poorer prognosis associated with splenic involvement in NLPHL.

Conclusions:

• Primary splenic NLPHL in children, though rare, can have an excellent prognosis.
• Splenectomy alone may be a sufficient treatment for pediatric primary splenic NLPHL.
• This case expands the understanding of NLPHL presentation and management in pediatric populations.