Large granular lymphocyte leukemia associated with hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report

The association of large granular lymphocyte leukemia (LGL-L) with hepatocellular carcinoma in a 55-year-old patient is described. An increased number of LGL was seen on peripheral blood smears. The immunophenotype was CD3+, CD4-, CD8+, and a study of the TCR gene rearrangement indicated the monoclonal nature of the proliferation. A liver mass was detected on CT scan and an ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy revealed the presence of hepatocholangiocellular elements. A right hepatectomy was performed. Major neutropenia persisted despite corticosteroids and granulocyte colony-stimulating growth factor (G-CSF) therapy. Methotrexate at 20 mg/week failed to control lymphocytosis after three months of treatment. A new nodule of hepatocarcinoma reappeared twelve months after surgery and a liver resection was performed.