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Constrictive pericarditis in B cell chronic lymphatic leukaemia
H W Habboush1, J Dhundee, D A Okati
1Department of Haematology, Bronglais Hospital, Aberystwyth, UK.
Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
|June 1, 1996
Summary
This case study highlights a rare complication of B-cell chronic lymphatic leukaemia (B-CLL) involving constrictive pericarditis. The pericardial infiltration was leukaemic and surgically correctable, offering a new treatment avenue.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cardiology
- Oncology
Background:
- B-cell chronic lymphatic leukaemia (B-CLL) is a common lymphoid malignancy.
- Constrictive pericarditis is a condition where the pericardium becomes stiff, impairing heart function.
Observation:
- A patient with B-cell chronic lymphatic leukaemia (B-CLL) presented with symptoms suggestive of constrictive pericarditis.
- Histological examination of the pericardium confirmed leukaemic cell infiltration.
Findings:
- The pericardial involvement in this B-CLL case was directly caused by leukaemic cells.
- This leukaemic pericardial infiltration led to constrictive physiology.
Implications:
- Leukaemic constrictive pericarditis is a rare but potentially treatable complication of B-cell chronic lymphatic leukaemia.
- Surgical intervention may be a viable option for managing this condition, as demonstrated in this case.
- Increased awareness of this complication is crucial for timely diagnosis and management in B-CLL patients.