[Complications of ileal lymphoma]

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the ileum accounts for some 3% of all extranodal onset lymphoma and 20% of gastrointestinal lymphoma given that the ileum is more frequently affected than the jejunum and duodenum. The large majority of primary extranodal lymphomas present a diffuse histological structure and in particular involve the cervico-fascial and gastrointestinal regions. Moreover, it is not uncommon to find an association between gastroenteric involvement and Waldeyer's ring (cervico-fascial region). Primary intestinal involvement may not present specific symptoms and remain silent for some time. It is manifested by the onset of complications caused by occlusion and perforation. Two cases of ileal lymphoma were treated at the Institute of Emergency Surgery of Catania University between 1992 and 1993. They were complicated by intestinal perforation and occlusion respectively. Both patients underwent emergency intestinal resection. Surgery represents the elective treatment for primary forms, followed by polychemotherapy and radiotherapy. Prognosis depends on the spread of disease and the hystotype. The administration of NTP and somatopstatin resulted in a shorter postoperative period with fewer surgical complications.