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Malignant lymphoma can present as hepatobiliary disease
A C Harris1, J M Ben-Ezra, M J Contos
1Department of Pathology, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298-0250, USA.
Cancer
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can manifest as liver inflammation without swollen lymph nodes. This presentation indicates widespread disease and a more aggressive lymphoma course.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Oncology
- Hematology
Background:
- Liver involvement in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) typically signifies advanced disease.
- This study focuses on a unique presentation of NHL involving the liver without palpable lymphadenopathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical features of NHL presenting primarily in the liver.
- To evaluate the clinical course and outcomes of patients with this specific presentation of NHL.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of liver tissue sections using hematoxylin and eosin staining and light microscopy.
- Immunohistochemical studies to determine lymphoma phenotype (T-cell vs. B-cell).
- Review of patient medical records for clinical details and follow-up information.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with fever, jaundice, and elevated liver enzymes, but lacked peripheral lymphadenopathy.
- Hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were common; imaging showed homogeneous liver involvement.
- Histology revealed portal infiltration by atypical lymphoid cells; immunohistochemistry identified equal numbers of T-cell and B-cell lymphomas. Bone marrow involvement was frequent, and the disease course was aggressive.
Conclusions:
- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can present with hepatic dysfunction and absence of peripheral lymphadenopathy.
- This hepatic presentation of NHL is associated with extensive disease and an aggressive clinical course.
- Early recognition and characterization are crucial for managing this aggressive form of lymphoma.