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Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Presenting as a Thigh Mass: A Case Report
Sondos Badran1, Karina Basmajian1, Alexander T Phan2
1Department of Internal Medicine, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, CA, USA.
The Permanente Journal
|May 28, 2026
Summary
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) can rarely present as a thigh mass, mimicking sarcoma. This case highlights the importance of considering lymphoma in extremity mass differentials.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma, typically affecting older adults.
- Classic DLBCL symptoms include lymphadenopathy, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
- Extranodal DLBCL presentations are rare and can mimic other malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an exceedingly rare case of primary DLBCL of the thigh.
- To emphasize the potential for DLBCL to mimic sarcoma in clinical and radiographic presentation.
- To highlight the importance of a broad differential diagnosis for extremity masses.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 76-year-old female with right thigh swelling and pain.
- Imaging studies revealed a soft-tissue mass suspicious for sarcoma.
- Histopathological biopsy confirmed DLBCL.
Main Results:
- The patient's thigh mass was diagnosed as DLBCL.
- The presentation mimicked sarcoma both clinically and radiographically.
- Primary thigh involvement by lymphoma is exceedingly rare.
Conclusions:
- Extranodal DLBCL, particularly in the thigh, is rare but can mimic other cancers like sarcoma.
- Clinicians must maintain a broad differential diagnosis for extremity masses.
- Awareness of unusual DLBCL presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
